Sunderland transfer news as Wolves and Ipswich eye £10m Dan Ballard deal
Sunderland defender Dan Ballard has been earmarked as a potential target for Wolves and Ipswich per reports from the Sunday Mirror (27 October).
The Northern Ireland international has enjoyed a successful few years at Sunderland but the form of Chris Mepham could keep him out of the Black Cats side.
Wolves and Ipswich both look set to be involved in a relegation dogfight and January could provide both clubs with an opportunity to strengthen their squad, with Ballard a rumoured target.
The report in the print edition of the Sunday Mirror, 27 October pg 67, states: “Wolves face a battle with Ipswich if they move in January for Northern Ireland centre back Dan Ballard.
“The Sunderland star is on Gary O’Neil’s shopping list as the Wolves boss eyes defensive reinforcements.
“He is seen as a potential £10million option.”
Would Sunderland suffer from the loss of Dan Ballard?
Quite frankly, yes. With the emergence of Mepham and the outstanding form he has demonstrated as of late, it is easy to forget just how good of a defender Ballard is for the Championship.
Prior to the Welshman’s arrival, Ballard was often courted as one of the best in the league for his role and that shouldn’t be forgotten.
Ballard will find it difficult to break back into the Sunderland side but his quality is something the club should be aiming to keep if they want to continue their promotion push.
With injuries inevitable and suspensions likely, the Black Cats need strength in depth as well as the option to simply rotate the squad during busy schedules and having someone like Ballard is crucial for that.
If Sunderland were to lose him, it would have to be for a respectable fee. Arsenal are reported to have a “significant” sell-on clause (Sunderland Echo) and the rumoured £10m would not demonstrate good business for the Black Cats.
In other Sunderland news, Carlton Palmer believes that Sunderland will fail to retain their place inside the Championship top two come the end of the season.
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