Recently relegated Burnley are in advanced talks to by domineering Arsenal defender Daniel Ballard, report the Athletic.
The 22-year-old has been in fine form on loan in recent seasons, endearing himself to the fans of both Millwall and Blackpool in recent loan spells. Coming through Hale End, the Northern Ireland international looks set to test his talents in the Championship as the Gunners allow him to leave permanently.
Ballard’s development has gone from strength to strength, resulting in 16 caps for his national team in recent times. However, with the strength of the centre-back options at Arsenal, bolstered by the return of Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year William Saliba.
That quality in the centre of defence could be further enhanced with the pursuit of Ajax star Lisandro Martinez, who the Gunners are reportedly pursuing intensely. Ballard finds himself a victim of that strength, and Burnley look set to profit.
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However, despite the impending departure of the defender, Arsenal intend to make their position a strong one in relation to the 22-year-old’s future, inserting a clause into the deal which would allow them to match any bid a club so happens to make in the future. There is also speculation that the Gunners may insert a percentage sell-on clause, however, this is unconfirmed.
The defender will be greeted to Burnley by up and coming manager Vincent Kompany, a once dominant centre-back himself, and inevitably the perfect candidate as the Northern Ireland star seeks to take his career to the next level.
Jake Lennard