Crystal Palace closing in on completing signing of Larne defender Kofi Balmer

Crystal Palace appear to be closing in on a deal for Larne defender Kofi Balmer.

It has been reported that Palace have agreed a fee with Larne for the transfer of the youth international, with just personal terms to be finalised before the move can be completed.

Palace have been monitoring Balmer's situation over the summer. The 21-year-old has over 130 Irish League appearances under his belt and has been capped 11 times for Northern Ireland Under 21s.

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.

Balmer has two years left on his current contract at Larne, but looks set to become Palace's second arrival of the summer following the signing of Chris Richards from Bayern Munich.