Kofi Balmer: I can’t wait to get stuck in after opting for Motherwell move
Kofi Balmer says he’s hungry to make a big impact at Motherwell after agreeing a two-year deal with the option of another 12 months.
The 23-year-old has agreed a switch to the Scottish Premiership side after being released by Crystal Palace following the expiry of his contract at Selhurst Park.
Northern Ireland defender Balmer spent the first half last season on loan at Port Vale in League One before dropping a division to join AFC Wimbledon.
“I’m so happy to be here,” Balmer said. “I’ve heard some great things about the club and the fan base. I can’t wait to meet everyone and get stuck into work.
“I feel I can bring a lot to the team and want to make a real impact in my time here.”
Aaron Jarvis has joined Ballymena United from Coleraine
Formerly on the books of Ballymena United and Larne, Balmer would win the Ulster Young Footballer of the Year in 2019 and represent the Invermen in the Europa Conference League qualifying rounds before moving to Crystal Palace. He played 17 games for Wimbledon, scoring once.
Motherwell manager Stuart Kettlewell said: “It’s great to get Kofi on board. There was a lot of interest from other clubs who were looking to sign him so it tells you we’ve got a good player on our hands.
“He has played lots of football for a boy his age but we still think with our coaching, we can get more out of Kofi and make him even better. I look forward to working with him during pre-season and seeing how he gets on
Balmer will add some experience to the ’Well squad as they look to improve on last season’s ninth-placed finish in the Premiership.
He has made 20 appearances for Northern Ireland Under-21s. In September 2022 he earned his first senior call-up to the national team.
Ballymena United have signed midfielder Aaron Jarvis from Coleraine in a two-year deal. The former Institute man made his Coleraine debut in August 2019.
Newry City have signed Seanna Foster after his departure from Cliftonville.
The 27-year-old, who can operate on the right side of defence or in midfield, arrives at The Showgrounds following five years at Solitude.
Foster had spent the last two seasons on loan with Bangor.
City boss Barry Gray said: “I’m delighted to get Seanna on board for the coming season.
“He’s a very experienced player that I know very well from his days at Cliftonville and Warrenpoint. He also comes with valuable Championship experience, following his recent loan spells at Bangor.
“That will no doubt be important for us in the coming months as we bed into life in the Championship.”
Goalkeeper Marty Gallagher is leaving Coleraine at the end of his contract.
The Bannsiders stated: “Coleraine Football Club announce that Marty Gallagher will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of June. Everyone at the club wants to thank Marty and wish him all the best as he moves on.”
Teenage striker Kenny Ximenes has joined Annagh United from Dungannon Swifts on a season long loan.
Former Crusaders and Glentoran defender Aidan Wilson has made a return back to Scotland after signing for Airdrieonians.
Wilson said: “I’m delighted — it’s good to get things sorted and I’m looking forward to getting in and getting started.
“I’ve played all over the place, but I see myself as a centre-half. Having a chat with the gaffer, the way he plays should suit me down to a tee.
“He’s trying to create an environment where you’re going to get better and learn, so I’m really looking forward to it and hopefully I can do well.”
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