Sources: Arsenal defender Ballard in advanced talks to join Millwall
Millwall are in advanced talks to sign Arsenal defender Daniel Ballard, Football Insider can reveal.
The 21-year-old has been the subject of multiple enquiries from Championship clubs including last season’s temporary team Blackpool.
An Arsenal source has told Football Insider that Ballard is closing in on a move to second-tier outfit Millwall.
The eight-times Northern Ireland international has been given the green light for a new season-long loan following discussions with Arsenal chiefs.
He is now expected to head for a year from north to south London.
The Premier League giants are keen for Ballard, who has two years remaining on his contract at the Emirates, to get regular first-team playing experience.
He spent the 2020-21 campaign on loan at Bloomfield Road and helped Neil Critchley's then third-tier side get promoted to the Championship.
The centre-back made 30 appearances across all competitions, including 27 starts.
Tellingly, Critchley named Ballard in his starting XI in all three of Blackpool's play-off fixtures.
The Gunners are looking to strengthen a central defence that already includes Gabriel Magalhaes, Pablo Mari, Rob Holding and William Saliba.
Talks are ongoing with Brighton defender Ben White over a move that could be worth nearly £50million.
As revealed by Football Insider on 22 June, the London club are readying a second offer for the England international.
Saliba is likely to leave on loan for the third consecutive season with Newcastle United among his suitors.