Ghana open talks with Eddie Nketiah to lure England's U21 all-time top scorer

Crystal Palace striker Eddie Nketiah is reportedly in discussions with Ghana over a switch in international allegiance, despite having already represented England’s senior side. The 27-year-old made his senior Three Lions debut against Australia in a friendly in October 2023, but current FIFA regulations still permit him to change nations, as he has featured in fewer than three competitive senior matches.

Nketiah holds a unique place in English football history as the U21s’ all-time leading scorer, having netted 16 goals in just 17 appearances for the young Three Lions. According to The Standard, Ghana’s Football Association has now initiated contact with the striker in an effort to convince him to represent his parents’ country of birth.

The Black Stars have been actively recruiting Premier League talent, with Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo and Coventry midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi among those already committed to Ghana. Nketiah would represent a significant addition given his pedigree and top-flight experience.

The decision is not straightforward for the former Arsenal man. He must weigh the prospect of further England call-ups — which have not materialised since his solitary cap — against the opportunity of regular international football with Ghana.

At club level, Nketiah has made an encouraging start under new Crystal Palace head coach Pierre Sage, starting all three of the Eagles’ Premier League fixtures this season. His goal return at Selhurst Park has been modest, however — four goals in 19 appearances last season, following seven in his debut campaign at the club.

Speaking about life under Sage, Nketiah was upbeat about the shift in approach. “I think the team are a bit more on the front foot,” he said. “We want to press higher, be a bit more aggressive. It’s a bit of a different style than we played last year, but I’ve enjoyed it.”

He added that the intensity of training had risen under the new coaching staff. “The quality of training has increased. I think everyone’s up for it in these short, intense sessions. I think it’s going to put us in good stead for the games coming up.”