Arsenal defender close to finalizing move to Championship side
Daniel Ballard is set to leave Arsenal for Championship outfit Sunderland, according to Football Insider.
The 22-year-old has been a subject of strong interest from a whole host of clubs across Europe.
Recently relegated Premier League side Burnley had agreed a fee with Arsenal and the player even travelled to the city for his medical.
However, talks broke down after terms could not be agreed. The Black Cats acted quickly and will now be pleased to land the Northern Ireland international, ahead of his many suitors.
With the competition that the Gunners have at center back, having the likes of Ben White, Gabriel Magalhaes, the incoming William Saliba, Rob Holding and the heavily linked Lisandro Martinez hopefully joining, making the cut at the Emirates Stadium was always an uphill struggle.
Thus, Mikel Arteta giving the green light to Ballard to depart the North London seems like a rational decision.
The young center back has 10 appearances for his national team while also racking up 30 for Blackpool and 32 for Millwall in the past two seasons.
Good performances out on loan made him an interesting prospect to look at in the current transfer window.
It is believed Millwall wanted to re-sign Ballard, while Blackburn Rovers were also monitoring his situation.
The 22-year-old will definitely try his best at the Stadium of Light. And the staff at London Colney will certainly be keeping one eye on him.
If things go well, a reunion might very well be on the cards in the future.