Released Bournemouth defender signs Crystal Palace deal

Released Bournemouth defender Chris Francis has signed a deal with Crystal Palace, the South London Press understands.

The centre-back was on trial at the start of pre-season at Charlton Athletic, with the 20-year-old playing 45 minutes in a friendly at Welling United.

Francis, 20, had also been on trial with Premier League rivals Sheffield United before signing for the South Londoners.

Palace have allowed academy defender Kofi Balmer, 22, to go out on loan to League One side Port Vale.

Jake O’Brien, who has been with the first team during pre-season and scored in the 2-1 defeat to Colombian side Millonarios, also has plenty of interest from sides in the Championship.