Crystal Palace have announced the signing of Chelsea striker Patrick Bamford on a season-long loan. 

The young striker signed a three-year contract with his current club before completing his move to SE25, perhaps an indicator of just how highly he is regarded at the West London side. 

Bamford started his career in football as a youth player for Nottingham Forest, and was signed by Chelsea for £1.5m after making just two appearances for the club. He then immediately joined MK Dons on loan, where he made 37 appearances scoring 18 goals. His spell at Derby saw a return of eight goals in 21 starts, while 39 games at Boro last season saw a return of 17 goals. 

While his scoring record is impressive, it will be interesting to see just how he fits into Alan Pardew's side, and whether that scoring touch can adapt to the challenge of Premier League football. 

It is likely that Bamford will join up with the rest of the Palace squad on their trip to South Africa.