Sheffield United have missed out on another potential signing it seems, this time in the form of Arsenal defender, Daniel Ballard.
The young defender was reportedly on United’s list of transfer targets for the summer. A host of clubs were said to be keen, but according to The Athletic, it is Vincent Kompany’s Burnley who have won the race.
It’s claimed the defender had direct talks with Burnley’s new boss Kompany and following on from those conversations, was convinced that Turf Moor was the right club for him. Ballard’s move to the Clarets follows on from a successful loan spell with Millwall last season. Gary Rowett had been keen to bring the Northern Irishman back but, like United, has missed out.
The Blades must now – once again – move on other names in the market. It’s been confirmed by Paul Heckingbottom that a bid is in for an international player, while United are also said to be in talks to bring another free-agent to the club.
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Ballard, meanwhile, leaves Arsenal for a nominal fee and he’ll be hoping to fill the void at Turf Moor left by the departure of James Tarkowski.
Our View: A Real Shame For United To See Burnley Sign Ballard
Just how advanced United’s interest in Ballard was we do not fully know, but it is still disappointing to see a potential promotion rival sign the Arsenal man.
Of the players mentioned this summer, Ballard would have been a good signing for United. Young, yet with experience already, and from a good background with Arsenal, he’d have been a shrewd addition in the back line.
Alas, it’s not to be for United and Heckingbottom and now others must be targeted. The Blades boss is said to want a number of new players in the building before the season begins in August.
