Nigeria-eligible defender Sean Somade signs first professional contract with Crystal Palace

NIGERIA-eligible central defender Sean Somade has signed his first professional contract with English Premier League Crystal Palace in a development that sets him up for a breakthrough into the first team during the forthcoming 2026/27 season.

Somade, 18, who joined Palace through its U14 academy, continued his development through the youth ranks before becoming a regular figure in Javier Alonso’s Under-18 team during the 2025/26 season. He was among the standout performers for Crystal Palace’s Under-18 side, helping the team achieve a historic season by winning the club’s first-ever U18 Premier League Cup.

His consistent performances also helped the young Eagles reach the FA Youth Cup semi-finals for the first time in almost 30 years. Somade played an important role in Palace’s defensive success, contributing to a strong backline that recorded eight clean sheets during their successful Premier League Cup campaign.

Among other things Somade was also part of the Palace squad that won the Under-15 National Floodlit Cup, highlighting his long-term progression within the club’s academy system. This new professional contract represents a major step in Somade’s career as he continues his journey with Palace’s Under-21 squad while aiming to break into senior football.

In a similar development, Everton have announced that two Nigeria-eligible players are among their first year scholars for the 2026/27 season. Divine Madueke and Levi Okorie are among the Toffees' latest intake of academy scholars.

A scholarship is one of the biggest milestones in a young player's development, bringing them closer to senior football. After turning 17, they can also put pen to paper on their first professional contracts.

Former Tottenham Hotspur right-back Divine Madueke is already a familiar face in Everton's U18 squad, having joined the Toffees from Spurs last August and going on to make four appearances for the U18s during the 2025/26 season. He made his debut in December, playing the full 90 minutes as Everton came from behind to beat Manchester United 3-1 away from home.