The condition that will compel Crystal Palace to sign Nigerian midfielder Chrisantus Uche permanently from Getafe has now been uncovered.

Uche joined Palace on an initial loan deal during the summer transfer window, with the Premier League side securing an option that becomes an obligation under specific performance criteria. 

The move came on the back of a standout season with Getafe, where the 22-year-old registered four goals and seven assists in 38 appearances across all competitions, playing a key role as the Spanish club narrowly missed out on European qualification.

However, the Super Eagles midfielder has yet to replicate that form at Selhurst Park. 

Since his arrival, Uche has struggled for playing time and impact, failing to register a goal or assist in seven appearances across the Premier League, Carabao Cup, and UEFA Conference League. 

His limited minutes have raised growing uncertainty over Palace's long-term plans for him.

According to The Standard, Palace will be obliged to make Uche's move permanent next summer only if he makes ten Premier League starts this season. 

With Oliver Glasner yet to regularly feature the midfielder in his starting XI, that threshold currently appears distant.

More than half of the campaign remains, meaning Uche still has a pathway to securing a permanent stay in South London, but only if he can convince Glasner and break into the first team consistently.

Despite interest expected ahead of the January transfer window, FIFA regulations prohibit the a player from joining a third club this season, having already represented both Getafe and Palace.

This leaves Uche's only viable option being to fight for minutes at Selhurst Park.

For now, Uche faces a decisive period as he looks to revive his campaign and meet the crucial condition that could determine his long-term future in the Premier League.

Adeyemi Adewale