Report: Crystal Palace in for Umaru Bangura

Crystal Palace have opened talks with Norwegian side FK Haugesund over the potential transfer of Sierra Leone international Umaru Bangura.

The Eagles have reportedly seen their opening bid turned down but the London Evening Standard reports that Ian Holloway is still keen on securing a deal for the centre-back.

Bangura, 25, joined Watford's youth academy in 2005 but left a year later after failing to secure a work permit.

He spent four years at Honefoss before joining Haugesund but now believes that he is ready for a move back to England.

"I'm ready for new challenges and the Premier League is a great opportunity for me," he is quoted as saying.

Bangura has won 18 caps for his country.