Blackpool are closing in on a deal for highly rated Crystal Palace full-back Danny Imray.
The Seasiders are looking to reinforce their defence ahead of the new League One campaign after a number of high-profile departures.
Imray Set for Bloomfield Road Switch
Steve Bruce’s side missed out on the League One play-offs last season, finishing 9th and falling eleven points short of the top six. With key defenders Jordan Gabriel and Matthew Pennington moving on to Port Vale and Bradford City, respectively, defensive additions have become a priority this summer.
The Tangerines have already moved swiftly in the market, signing experienced centre-backs Fraser Horsfall and Michael Ihiekwe. Midfielder Jordan Brown has also arrived, but the next piece of business looks to be 21-year-old Danny Imray, with a medical reportedly scheduled as part of a loan move from Crystal Palace.
Crystal Palace have agreed a deal for Danny Imray to join Blackpool. The 21yo full-back to have medical after host of #EFL clubs were beaten for his signature
— Mike McGrath (@mcgrathmike) July 13, 2025
Imray, who joined Palace in 2021 after emerging through the ranks at Chelmsford City, enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024/25 with Bromley. Featuring 39 times in League Two, he was a key figure in a side that impressed many in their first-ever season in the EFL, finishing 11th. His performances have not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from multiple EFL clubs, including Bolton Wanderers and Huddersfield Town.
Despite the competition, it is Blackpool who appear to have won the race, with the pacy and versatile full-back now expected to link up with Bruce’s squad ahead of the new campaign. Capable of playing at both right-back and right wing-back, Imray is seen as a player with potential to grow into a regular at a higher level.
Bruce will hope the arrival of Imray can provide balance and energy on the right side at Bloomfield Road, complementing the more experienced figures already in place at the back. James Husband, Horsfall, and Ihiekwe are likely to form the spine of the unit, with Imray offering a more athletic option out wide.
The Seasiders have made no secret of their ambitions to improve on last season’s showing, and Imray’s capture could prove significant in achieving that aim.
Writer’s View
This looks like another smart move from Blackpool, who have quietly put together a solid summer of recruitment. Danny Imray showed real promise with Bromley and, at just 21, fits the mould of a player who can develop quickly in the right environment.
His athleticism and attacking instincts should suit Bruce’s system well, especially if the team is aiming to be more proactive this season. If this loan is confirmed, it could be one of the more underrated deals of the summer in League One.
