AliousSunderland might need to brace themselves for yet another transfer tug-of-war as interest mounts in one of their key players, following the recent £10m transfer of their promising young winger Tommy Watson to Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion.
Watson, a graduate of Sunderland’s Academy of Light, earned his spot in the first team this season after limited appearances in the prior two years. With two goals in 15 outings across all competitions, his potential caught Brighton’s eye during the January window.
The Seagulls bided their time and sealed the deal, which was finalized and revealed on Tuesday evening.
Sunderland are no strangers to transfer buzz surrounding their squad.
In recent weeks, players like Dan Neil, Chris Rigg, and Jobe Bellingham have all been tipped for potential moves away from the Stadium of Light. Now, attention has shifted to another Black Cats standout, defender Dan Ballard, who is reportedly on the radar of Championship rivals Sheffield United.
According to Football League World, the Blades—currently topping the Championship table—are eyeing the ex-Arsenal center-back as a potential signing, but only if they clinch promotion to the Premier League.
With seven games left, Sheffield United lead the pack, two points ahead of Leeds United and Burnley in a tight race for the top spots.
The report indicates that Blades boss Chris Wilder is keen to bolster his backline should promotion be secured, undeterred by Ballard’s injury setbacks this season.
Hamstring, knee, and ankle issues have restricted the 25-year-old to just 12 starts across all competitions. This isn’t the first time Ballard’s name has surfaced in transfer talks—Wolves and Leicester City were said to be tracking him before the January window.
Given his contract runs until the summer of 2028, following an extension signed last July, Sunderland would likely command a hefty fee for his services.
Reflecting on his commitment to the club last year, Ballard said, “Sunderland gave me the chance to play in the Championship, and I’ve loved my time here so far.
When they approached me about a new contract, it was all I wanted, so I’m thrilled to have it signed. I’m excited for what’s ahead this season.”
What about his current standing with Sunderland? Head coach Regis Le Bris has weighed in on Ballard’s role despite the defender’s ongoing recovery from a hamstring injury, which has sidelined him during the team’s push for a confirmed play-off spot.
In February, Le Bris commented, “Ballard’s in a great spot. Even though he hasn’t played much recently, he’s still engaged, which is vital for team morale.
We need competition to keep everyone sharp, and when someone’s struggling, we’ve got options. It’s a good challenge for me to figure out.”
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