John Bostock is set to snub interest from Chelsea and Arsenal by
signing a long-term contract with Crystal Palace.
The Eagles wonderkid had attracted interest from the Premier League
duo - as well as Spanish giants Barcelona - after becoming the
Championship club's youngest ever debutant.
Midfielder Bostock made his first Palace appearance aged just 15
years and 287 days against Watford in October.
The England youth international, who turned 16 on Tuesday, is not
allowed to sign a full professional contract until his 17th
birthday.
But Palace are confident he will pen an agreement to turn pro with
them before Saturday's clash with promotion rivals Bristol
City.
Boss Neil Warnock said: "I am optimistic he will sign for us. I
have told his parents that I think the best way for him to move
forward is by staying at the club."
Meanwhile Clint Hill has sealed a £200,000 permanent switch from
Stoke to Crystal Palace.
Hill, 29, has been handed a two-year contract by Eagles boss Neil
Warnock after impressing since arriving on loan in November.
The burly central defender has scored three goals as Palace have
been transformed from relegation candidates to promotion
hopefuls.
Warnock said: "He is a manager's type of player and he is always
the first name on the team-sheet."