Recent reports have suggested that Shrewsbury Town are setting their sights on Crystal Palace goalkeeper, Joe Whitworth, ahead of another important summer.
The Shrews have had an extremely disappointing campaign in the third tier, with a narrow escape from the drop culminating in a mere four point gap above relegated Cheltenham Town. It has been a poor defensive showing for Paul Hurst’s side this season. The Shropshire outfit have conceded 67 goals, with 11 coming in their last five league matches.
An ambitious loan move for a very talented keeper in Whitworth, could be a huge statement signing. It is also clear that Shrewsbury aren’t holding back from some cut-throat decisions this summer. Their retained list, following a dreary 2023/24 season, announced the departures of a plethora of key players.
According to a recent report from Alan Nixon on his Patreon site, Hurst’s side are showing interest in snapping up Whitworth’s services for next season. The now 20-year-old has been at the London club for eight years and has recently signed a new five-year contract. This allows Whitworth to search for loan moves to harness his talents, whilst still having a future at Palace.
What a feeling being able to sign a new long term contract extension for the club I’ve loved and supported ever since I was young!! Looking forward to the future🙌🏼😁 @CPFC pic.twitter.com/pllENOIgAB
— Joe Whitworth (@JoeWhitworth_1) January 11, 2023
The former England youth goalkeeper has mostly played in the Premier Development League for the London side and since August 2021, has featured 45 times. Whitworth has moved through the different age groups at his parent club following the transfer from AFC Wimbledon in his early years.
The Eagles look content in sanctioning this loan move as they already have an adequate range of goalkeepers at the club, ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign. Whitworth himself already has experience in the top-flight as he has played twice for Palace since his debut in March 2023. The 20-year-old also holds the club record for the youngest Premier League ‘keeper, following his performance against Brighton and Hove Albion.
Writer’s View
The Shrews could do with a reinforcement of their squad, especially defensively. The perfect area to start this rebuild is the goalkeeping position. Whitworth is clearly valued very highly by the Eagles and is still trusted enough to remain on their books. A loan move would be perfect for all parties: Shrewsbury get a talented goalkeeper for the season, the 20-year-old harnesses his trade, and Palace develop their asset further.
The Shropshire side will be hopeful of a resurgence in their performance next year, following their disappointing 19th-placed finish. If they ‘sure up’ defensively with this addition, they can certainly build some strong foundations to further improve other areas of the side.