Millwall facing Crystal Palace transfer challenge that could affect Neil Harris success | OneFootball

Romain Esse is reportedly being monitored by Crystal Palace. This could have a huge impact on the success of Neil Harris

Romain Esse is currently one of the hottest prospects in the Championship. It's no surprise that Millwall will be bracing themselves for interest in January.

The 19-year-old has featured in all 12 of Millwall's league matches this season, netting three goals and chipping in with a single assist. The youngster is touted for greatness, thanks to his rapid rise through the ranks at the Den.

Alan Nixon has recently reported that Premier League outfit Crystal Palace are weighing up a move for the teenager. Whilst the fee the Lions would command would be sizable, the knock-on-effect of losing their star man could be bad news for Neil Harris, should the deal happen.

Esse's rise to first-team fame

It's been a gradual integration into the first team for the young attacker. Over the last few seasons, Esse's game time has gradually increased, which has also been a reward for his solid form.

Making his first senior appearances in 2022/23, the following season saw Esse open his account with his first two senior goals for the London club. After years of cutting his teeth in the Millwall academy, he'd finally achieved his dream that every young academy footballer has, by breaking through at his boyhood club.

As of matchday 12, the Englishman has featured in all of Millwall's league fixtures, playing 93% of the minutes in those matches. Thanks to his excellent form so far, Esse is set to be a key part of Harris' team this season, as they hope to challenge for a play-off spot come May.

Any breakout story will always catch the eyes of those higher up the pyramid. Players such as Ollie Watkins, Eberechi Eze, and Michael Olise are just a few examples of players who've been picked up in the EFL and gone on to massive things. With that in mind, Esse will be hoping to add his name to that ever-growing list.

Palace keen on another EFL pickup

When it comes to smart business, Crystal Palace are without a doubt one of the best in this area. Two recent examples of signings from the EFL have proven to be some of the best in the club's recent history.

French winger, Olise, was signed from Championship side Reading in 2021. The then-teenager commanded a fee of £8 million from the Eagles, which he certainly repaid. After three excellent seasons at Selhurst Park, Olise was sold to Bayern Munich for a reported £50 million, turning the club an enormous profit.

The Frenchman wasn't the only Championship star to link up with the London club though, as just the year prior, Eze linked up with the Eagles from fellow Londoners, Queens Park Rangers. Whilst the fee was double what was paid for Olise, the attacker has also more than repaid what they spent on him. Despite plenty of links, Eze remains with the club and is currently estimated to be valued at £60m as an England international.

When looking at suitable destinations, Esse will surely see the success of the players mentioned above as a great sign that the Eagles could be the right move. Whilst other factors such as the location of the club compared to his current employers, Millwall, will be a factor, a move to Palace has been the springboard for many young footballers to advance their careers, which Esse will be determined to replicate.

Esse's departure could stall Harris' success

There were mixed reactions from the Millwall faithful when it was announced that Harris was to return to his former post as the Lions' manager, having left a couple of years prior. Many fans criticised the move as a step back to their old ways, rather than moving forward under a completely new manager.

Despite the backlash, the decision has proven to be a good one, as the London-based side have made a solid start to the 2024/25 season, sitting tenth after 12 matches. Harris has brought some much-needed stability to The Den, as the former play-off contenders have slowly dropped off in recent seasons.

However, the loss of Esse could be a turning point in Millwall's season, should he depart The Den in January. Losing such a key player will undoubtedly have an impact on Harris' side, as their young prospect will be extremely tough to replace. Taking his goal contributions out of the Lions' attack will have a big effect on results, as only Duncan Watmore has managed to outscore Esse so far.

It will be a tough dilemma, should the Premier League side come calling in January. Whilst the fee offered might be tempting for Millwall to cash in, they would be better off waiting until the summer to sell their star. Retaining him for the full season would be a huge bonus for Harris, and could be the difference between success and failure this season.

The deciding factor, though, might be the lure of Palace and the pathway to the top they provide young EFL talent.