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Sheffield United have been urged to make a summer move for Sunderland centre-back Dan Ballard, with Don Goodman suggesting the transfer could benefit all parties involved. The former Sky Sports pundit believes Ballard has both the pedigree and potential to be a significant defensive upgrade for the Blades—if they secure Premier League promotion.
According to *Football League World*, Ballard has been identified as a top target for Sheffield United, but only in the event of them winning promotion back to the top flight. Sunderland are believed to have placed a valuation of £12 million to £15 million on the 25-year-old ahead of the upcoming transfer window, as reported by Alan Nixon.
**Ballard a Potential Exit Option for Sunderland**
Since joining Sunderland from Arsenal in 2022, Ballard has become a familiar figure in the Black Cats’ back line when fit. However, with manager Régis Le Bris introducing a more fluid rotation in central defence, Ballard has not always been guaranteed a starting role—especially after missing part of the season through injury.
Goodman, speaking exclusively to *Football League World*, indicated that Sunderland may be open to selling the Northern Ireland international this summer.
“He’s 25 now, still relatively young but with good EFL experience under his belt,” said Goodman. “It’s been a stop-start season for him because of injury, and even after returning, he wasn’t immediately restored to the starting XI. That says a lot about where he stands in the squad hierarchy.”
He added, “From Sunderland’s perspective, Ballard could be one of the more marketable players they’d be open to selling if the right offer comes in.”
**A Better Fit for the Premier League?**
Goodman also suggested that Ballard would represent a defensive upgrade for Sheffield United, especially if the Blades are serious about stabilising in the Premier League after promotion.
“He would probably improve what Sheffield United currently have at centre-back,” he noted. “But the dynamics are interesting—if Sunderland win the play-offs and Sheffield United go up automatically, would Ballard be tempted to swap one newly promoted side for another? It’s not a simple decision.”
**A Deal That Makes Strategic Sense**
With 19 league appearances under his belt this season, Ballard has proven himself as a solid Championship defender, albeit with injury concerns. A move to Bramall Lane would make strategic sense if Sheffield United want to reinforce their backline with a player who’s ready to make the step up, but still has room to grow.
However, Goodman warned that the Blades should be cautious with their spending. “Given Ballard’s injury record, going much beyond £12 or £13 million might be a risk. But if the new ownership at Bramall Lane is ready to invest, this could be a sensible long-term signing.”
Ultimately, the future of Dan Ballard could hinge on the promotion fate of both clubs, but he’s undoubtedly a name to watch as the summer transfer window approaches.
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