Report: 'Top, top' talent is about to sign for Crystal Palace, he'll 'only get better and better'

By Giuseppe Labellarte

Crystal Palace are reportedly on the verge of signing Larne FC defender Kofi Balmer.

Sky Sports have reported that the Eagles have agreed a fee with the 21-year-old.

Balmer is now finalising terms ahead of a move to Palace, added the report.

As per Belfast Live, Palace have been monitoring the youngster’s situation over the summer.

Balmer has over 130 Irish League appearances under his belt.

In addition, he has won 11 caps for Northern Ireland’s Under 21s.

Last season, Balmer made 41 appearances in all competitions for Larne.

He helped his club retain the County Antrim Shield before finishing fifth in the NIFL Premiership.

And this season, Balmer has played the full 90 minutes in both of Larne’s Europa Conference League first-round qualifying legs.

His side lost 1-0 on aggregate to St Joseph’s of Gibraltar.

“He will only get better and better”

Last year, Larne veteran Albert Watson sung Balmer’s praises, in conversation with News Letter.

“I always knew he was a top, top player and he certainly has the tools to push on,” said Watson.

“I kept in touch with Kofi and would send him the odd message.

“Now we are both at Larne I’m delighted to help in any way I can and we would often stay back together after training and work on a few things.

“You can see him grow with more and more experience but I enjoy passing on tips I’ve picked up along the way.

“Plus at Larne with people like Jeff Hughes the younger lads will never be short of someone to turn to for advice.

“People are so quick to write players off once they hit 30 but experience is invaluable.

“And someone like Kofi is so hungry to learn and work hard.

“Although we put a lot of value into making everyone feel welcome at Larne given so many different backgrounds, Kofi has certainly settled in well at the club and bought into the culture.

“He is brilliant in the changing room and he will only get better and better thanks to full-time football.”