AFC Wimbledon are interested in signing Crystal Palace defender Kofi Balmer, who spent the first half of the 2023/24 campaign on loan at League One side Port Vale.
The Dons are reportedly eager to sign a suitable replacement for important first-team defender Ryan Johnson after he was injured in the 3-1 loss at MK Dons. According to reports from the South London Press, Balmer has emerged as the key target for AFC Wimbledon.
The 23-year-old recently returned to Premier League side Crystal Palace after spending six months on loan at Port Vale. The defender made 16 appearances in all competitions for the Valiants and was deployed at centre-back and in the full-back positions.
The Dons are pushing for a League Two play-off spot this season following a strong first half to the campaign. Jackson’s side are currently eighth in the table and just two points behind Notts County in seventh.
Balmer joined Crystal Palace in August 2022 from Northern Irish side Larne FC. The defender is yet to make a senior appearance for the Eagles but has notched over 100 matches in the NIFL Premiership and League One.
In September 2022, Balmer was also called up to the Northern Ireland senior squad for UEFA Nation’s League matches against Kosovo and Greece.
Johnnie Jackson’s side would make Balmer their second signing from Palace during the winter window after 20-year-old forward John-Kymani Gordon arrived on January 17.
Writer’s View
Balmer appears a suitable and competent short-term replacement for the injured Johnson at AFC Wimbledon. Jackson clearly wants to move quickly to replace his key centre-back and Palace’s highly-rated youngster appears an ideal replacement.
In addition, the move would suit the needs of all parties involved. The 23-year-old is likely to receive more first-team game time at senior level and the Dons will get a talented and versatile defender to support their play-off push.
