According to Sky Sports, Crystal Palace have now agreed a deal with Larne over the signing of Kofi Balmer.
What’s the story?
Well, the Eagles have taken great care over their youth setup in recent times, building a state-of-the-art £20m academy right in the heart of south London.
However, those on the recruitment team have clearly been keeping an eye on talents in Northern Ireland as well as on the club’s doorstep in south London, as a deal for Balmer has now been struck.
Sky Sports believe the Northern Ireland Under-21 international is now in discussions over personal terms with the Premier League side, and he will undergo a medical in London before putting pen to paper on his contract.
The fee remains undisclosed.
However, Balmer had a contract running until June 2024 with Larne, so Crystal Palace surely compensated the Danske Bank Premiership side well.
The centre-back has already made two appearances this season, playing 90 minutes in both legs of Larne’s UEFA Conference League qualifier against St Joseph’s – unfortunately, Larne lost 1-0 on aggregate.
Kofi Balmer could shine for Crystal Palace
Make no mistake about it, Balmer has certainly made a sensible choice in signing for Crystal Palace.
The Eagles have produced gems from their academy in recent times, such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Tyrick Mitchell – going back even further, Wilfried Zaha came through the ranks at Selhurst Park.
Now, with Patrick Vieira at the helm – a manager who isn’t afraid to trust the youngsters – there is no reason why Balmer cannot make an impact on the first-team if he succeeds in the Under-23 side.
The 21-year-old has earned 11 caps for the Northern Ireland Under-21 side, where his manager John Schofield described him as an “unbelievable” talent.
The Belfast Telegraph quote him as saying: “Kofi is a fantastic lad and player. His attitude and application is unbelievable and he’s willing to learn.”
Keep an eye on this situation, as official confirmation should soon be made by Crystal Palace.
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