Sunderland AFC have pulled a blinder with Arsenal transfer deal.
Sunderland have adopted a clear transfer policy in recent years that has centred on bringing in talented young players.
In theory, it’s a sensible strategy, and the idea is to develop players and sell them on for a big profit, as well as ensuring they contribute on the pitch.
However, there’s an obvious risk too, as Sunderland are taking chances by bringing in new recruits who are generally inexperienced and unproven.
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Dan Ballard has been a shrewd investment for Sunderland
Yet, the hit rate under Kristjaan Speakman has been impressive, with Jack Clarke the obvious success story, whilst the likes of Jobe Bellingham and Trai Hume are among a host of current players who have seen their value increase substantially.
And, another who falls into that category is Dan Ballard, with the centre-back establishing himself as a key figure at the Stadium of Light following his arrival from Arsenal.
The 25-year-old came through the ranks at the Gunners, but he understandably couldn’t get near the first-team, so several loan spells followed in the Football League with Swindon, Blackpool and Millwall.
Ballard was particularly impressive with the Lions, and that convinced Sunderland to bring him to Wearside in 2022.
Kayden Jackson vs Dan Ballard
Since then, the Northern Ireland international has gone from strength to strength.
Dan Ballard is destined to play at the highest level.
In terms of his attributes, Ballard is a very capable modern defender, which is why he is on the radar of Premier League clubs.
Whilst he may not be the quickest off the mark, he can shift when he gets going, but his positional play means that he is rarely caught out anyway.
Then, when it comes to physicality, Ballard excels. He is very strong in the air, and he regularly wins duels against his striker. Furthermore, he is willing to step up and defend high up the pitch, which is crucial to ensuring Sunderland can press in the way they want.
On the ball, Ballard can improve, but he is no hindrance in possession, and his long diagonal passes can start attacks.
Again, this is why clubs such as Everton have been credited with an interest in the player, with some reports claiming he could command a fee in the region of £20m, which would represent 10x profit for the club.
However, that’s not something that will appeal to Sunderland right now.
Instead, the only focus for Ballard and the club is ensuring that he can fulfill his Premier League ambitions with the Black Cats, and the fact he signed a contract back in July suggests he is happy with how things are going.
Promotion is a real possibility this season and Ballard will have his role to play if Sunderland are to return to mixing it with the elite.
The outcome of the promotion race could have a big impact on Ballard though, as failure to go up could put his future in serious doubt, whilst he is surely certain to stay if they reach the Premier League.
Either way no matter which way it plays out, it will be another example of Sunderland’s transfer strategy working.
