Crystal Palace have announced the signing of Northern Ireland under-21 international Kofi Balmer on a one-year deal from Northern Ireland Football League side Larne F.C.
The 21-year-old defender made over 40 appearances across all competitions last season for Larne, helping his side secure a fifth-placed finish and subsequently a Europa Conference League play-off spot after retaining the County Antrim Shield in January.
Prior to joining Larne, Balmer established himself with fellow NIFL club Ballymena United, making his debut at just 16 years of age during the 2016/17 campaign and helped the club register a second-placed finish only two seasons later.
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Balmer links up with fellow summer additions Cheick Doucoure, Chris Richards, Sam Johnstone and Malcom Ebiowei at Selhurst Park amid Patrick Vieira's claims that Palace must continue their activity in the market.
Upon signing, Balmer declared: "It's surreal. I feel amazing. It's every boy's dream to play football professionally, but to come to a club like Crystal Palace with all the top quality facilities – I couldn't have asked for anything better."
Meanwhile Academy Director Gary Issott added: “He fits the profile of young, hungry and talented players that we want at the club and he has already amassed a wealth of experience in Northern Ireland for both Larne and Ballymena.
"He joins a talented U21s squad and will provide stiff competition in the defensive area of the team.”
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