Boosting defensive armour with Balmer
Crystal Palace were on the verge of securing the services of Northern Ireland U21 centre-back Kofi Balmer, at the time of going to press, writes Yann Tear.
The 21-year-old has played for current club Larne FC in this year’s Europa Conference League qualifiers and a three-year deal looks to have been agreed.
Despite his young age, Balmer has amassed more than 130 Irish League appearances and been capped 11 times for the U21s.
Last season, he made 41 appearances in all competitions for Larne, as the Inver Park club retained the Co Antrim Shield before finishing fifth in the Premiership.
Meanwhile, Eagles midfielder Scott Banks has joined Mark Hughes’ Bradford City in League Two on a season-long loan.
The 20-year-old Scotland U21 international joined the Eagles from Dundee United in January 2020.
“He is a talented young player who has the ability to unlock doors and make things happen,” Hughes said.
Other sources were this week reporting that the Eagles are keen on Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi.
The 21-year-old did not feature in the opening day win at Everton and could go out on loan.
The Eagles face a daunting trip to Liverpool on Monday night.
They have been beaten on the past five visits to Anfield, shipping 14 goals.
In the EFL Cup, Patrick Vieira’s men will play a second-round tie at League One Oxford United.