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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.
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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.
In other news, Arsenal tipped to sell 22-year-old with teen sensation in line to replace him in the starting XI.