Norwich City have signed Sporting Kansas City striker Kei Kamara on loan for the rest of the season, subject to receiving immigration clearance.

The 28-year old has now been granted clearance to play by the relevant footballing authorities and the deal has been agreed between the two clubs and the MLS.

Kamara requires approval to come and work in the country for Norwich City from the UK Border Agency.

City boss Chris Hughton said: “I’m delighted to bring Kei to the football club, one of Major League Soccer’s best players over the last few seasons.

“There is no doubt it is a big jump to make into the Premier League, but it is an exciting challenge both for him and us here at the club to prove his talent.

“Kei also adds some valuable competition upfront alongside the current striking options we have here at the club.”

The 28-year-old is one of three players to score nine or more goals in each of the last three seasons and is thought to be in the last year of his contract with the MLS, who own the rights for the players.

Kamara said: “It is a very bittersweet day as I am excited to achieve one of my goals, which was to play in the EPL.

“Being such a positive person, I trust in this decision and am thankful for the opportunity to play at Norwich City through the end of their season. I am grateful for the coaching staff at Sporting KC and especially Peter (Vermes) for believing in me and helping me through this process.”

Born in Sierra Leone, Kamara emigrated to the United States as a teenager and has spent the last eight years playing for various professional clubs, with Kansas securing his services from Houston Dynamo in 2009.

A full international for Sierra Leone with 14 appearances and two goals to his name, he had a trial with Stoke City in December but was not offered a deal.