Centre-half Jahmal Howlett-Mundle joins Jack Ross' U20s from Crystal Palace.

Jack Ross’ U20s side continues to strengthen with the addition of defender Jahmal Howlett-Mundle.

The centre-half has made the move north to join the Jambos, subject to international clearance, following nine years at Premier League side Crystal Palace.

Jahmal will ply his trade with Jack’s Development Squad as the Player Development Manager looks to assemble his team for the upcoming season, though the 18-year-old is already excited about the prospect of progressing through the ranks.

Speaking exclusively to Hearts News, Jahmal said: “It’s been a long time coming and I couldn’t wait to get here and get started. It should be a great experience and a great journey.

“I was here two months ago for a week and I had a great time. Everyone welcomed me really well. My family has come up with me now that everything is signed and sealed. I just can’t wait to get started.

“I know that’s there’s been a lot of young players coming through the academy, and elsewhere, and Robbie and Stevie have given them the chance and Jack’s helped them to continue their development into the first-team. That’s the main reason I’m here, to continue my development and work with Hearts’ first-team.”

Reflecting on his latest signing, Jack said: “Jahmal’s got a great pedigree. We were fortunate enough to get him up to train with us at the end of last season and he did really well.

“He’s a good lad and was desperate to come up here and do well. He’s moved up here and even came up early so he could familiarise himself with the city and his way into training. All of these things show you that he’s really keen to make a good impression and do well. I’m looking forward to seeing him in action.

“He’s a little bit different from some of the younger players that we’ve signed for the squad this season in that he’s a little bit older – but still 18 – and probably a little bit more mature in terms of his experiences in football, both physically and mentally. I think that’ll help us as well in terms of the group, he’ll drag some of them along in that sense.

“We can branch out and look at players from these clubs as well. These players who come through academy systems in England have good habits and have been coached well so I’m looking forward to working with him.”