Port Vale are reportedly in advanced discussions with Crystal Palace to secure the services of striker Jemiah Umolu for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
The 19-year-old forward has impressed for Palace’s under-21 side and could be a key addition for the League Two outfit as they aim to bolster their promotion bid. Umolu joined Crystal Palace in the summer following a free transfer from West Ham United. The former academy prospect at West Ham had caught Palace’s attention during two trial spells last season, leading to his permanent signing.
Umolu’s Rising Stock
This season, Umolu has showcased his goalscoring prowess, netting nine times in the Premier League 2 competition. Notably, he delivered a standout performance against Tottenham in November, scoring a hat-trick. The striker also gained experience in senior competitions, featuring in three EFL Trophy matches and scoring a crucial goal against Gillingham.
Port Vale’s interest in Umolu stems from their urgent need for attacking reinforcements. Despite being just one point off the automatic promotion spots in League Two, Darren Moore’s side have struggled to convert chances into goals. The Valiants have managed only six goals in their last 10 league matches, the lowest tally in the division during that period.
Umolu’s goal-scoring form and potential could provide the spark Vale need to reignite their promotion charge. With 21 games remaining in the season, the Valiants are eager to address their attacking shortcomings and return to League One at the first time of asking.
Vale’s Promotion Ambitions
Port Vale’s recent 2-1 win over Doncaster highlighted both their resilience and ongoing challenges in front of goal. While the victory was a positive result, Moore will be acutely aware of the need for greater firepower to sustain their promotion push.
Umolu’s arrival would offer versatility and a proven scoring touch to a side hungry for goals. The young striker’s blend of pace, technical ability, and composure in front of goal makes him an ideal candidate to spearhead Vale’s attack during the season’s decisive months.
Writer’s View
Jemiah Umolu represents a calculated risk for Port Vale, but one with significant potential rewards. His prolific record at youth level and experience in senior competitions suggest he is ready to take on the challenge of League Two football. For Vale, a proven goal scorer could be the difference between automatic promotion and the uncertainty of the playoffs.
If the deal materialises, it could be a turning point in their campaign, addressing their most glaring weakness and injecting much-needed momentum into their promotion bid.
