Sunderland centre-back Dan Ballard has been identified by Everton as a potential Jarrad Branthwaite replacement, Football Transfers has claimed.
Ballard, a defender, was acquired by Sunderland in the summer of 2022 from Arsenal after productive loan stints at Blackpool and Millwall. Since then, he has been a dependable backup for the Championship team, making 33 of his 55 club appearances this season.
It has been suggested that the 24-year-old has the potential to play in the Premier League. Now, there’s serious interest.
Everton is reportedly considering the Sunderland centre back as a possible replacement for star defender Jarrad Branthwaite, according to Football Transfers. The former Carlisle United player has thrived in a regular starting role this year and may be heading to a team higher up the standings.
The Toffees might then close in on the Stadium of Light and add Ballard to their defensive lineup. Curiously, though, rumour has it that the Black Cats are anticipated to demand roughly €23 million, or £19.6 million, for the Northern Irishman.
Bound to draw attention?
Ballard is a key member of Sunderland’s team, and you would like the former Arsenal player to advance without them if they aren’t going to win the Premier League. He might be given the opportunity to do so by Everton, but there might be a high cost.
Although the centre defender seems to be worth close to £20 million, the Black Cats have already demonstrated that they are more than willing to hold onto their star players if suitors are unwilling to pay the asking price. There is still lots of time before summer, so only time will tell if the value is that high.
Ballard and Sunderland will be totally committed to trying to resurrect their play-off push until the window opens. As of right now, Wearside is seven points below sixth place in the Championship table, sitting in 10th place.
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