English Premiership side Crystal Palace have won the race to sign non-league center back Jacob Mensah.

Mensah has been on the radar of several EPL teams such as Brighton and Hove Albion, Wolverhampton and Cardiff City.

Mensah impressed Roy Hodgson’s staff whiles on trails with Palace.

Jacob has been described as having a playing style of Manchester United’s Chris Smalling in his way of play.

Jacob, 18, made more than 60 appearances for the senior team in Ramsgate career after completing the pathway their Academy.

Manager, Nick Davis has congratulated Jacob on his move and believes he had the opportunity to make the grade with Crystal Palace.

Club director and CEO Paul Bowden-Brown said although there was no financial gain for the Club, a pre-season game against a strong u/23s has been arranged and it will give the supporters a chance to see Mensah playing in the colours of Crystal Palace.

He added: “We wish Jacob the very best with his new challenge at Crystal Palace, and hope he looks forward to meeting up with his new teammates. What an advert this is for non-league football, and Ramsgate Football Club with its strong youth set up.

“If any other young footballers wish to follow in Jacob’s footsteps, come and join us when the club is running its post 16-18years academy trials at Southwood on April 17.”

Mensah made his Ramsgate debut in 2016. His best career moment was winning the Kent Cup final.

Mensah has the opportunity to feature for Ghana as he joins fellow internationals Jordan Ayew and defender Jeffery Schluup who has been in fine form this season.

The last time Ghana had a Mensah in their defensive set up it was John Mensah and currently Jonathan Mensah so it won’t be bad adding Jacob Mensah to the set up.

England won’t let Ghana have him that easily with the talent this lad possess.