The Gunners will sell Daniel Ballard due to growing interest in the defender

Daniel Ballard is attracting interest from many clubs both in England and abroad.

A little about the topic

The Gunners will sell a promising Arsenal player this summer if a suitable offer comes in for the defender. Arsenal recently held talks with Daniel Ballard’s representatives and both parties have come to a mutual agreement regarding its future. They have decided that Daniel will be available for a transfer, but only if the north London club’s assessment is completed.

Reason for Daniel’s departure

The Gunners have been delighted with the progress Daniel has made over the past two years following impressive loan spells with Millwall and Blackpool. But they don’t believe the defender will have a clear opportunity to get the regular playing time he needs to continue progressing if he stays in north London next season. Another loan is an option, but with two years left on his current contract, Arsenal is now open to allowing the mighty 6ft 2in to go permanently. Daniel made 33 appearances in all competitions for Millwall last season, helping them to a ninth Championship finish.

Clubs interested in Daniel Ballard

Several clubs have expressed interest in Daniel, who has already established himself as a regular Northern Ireland international despite never having played for the Gunners. Millwall are keen to bring him back to Den but face competition from a host of other English clubs, as well as some from abroad. While the Gunners are open to letting the player leave, they will look for some sort of buyout option included in any deal.

What did Mertesacker say about Daniel?

Speaking earlier in the season, Gunners academy manager Mertesacker spoke in glowing terms about the progress Daniel has made in recent seasons. Per Mertesacker said they are getting players like Ballard who they are really proud of developing. According to Per, he was nearly released twice. To get back, work his way up and create a path for himself – Per is just so proud of him.

Daniel Ballard is now a solid defender playing international football for Northern Ireland and scoring for Millwall in the Championship. Great to see. Mertesacker says this is an example of stair-traveling – taking up time in their system because there will be a path for them if they perform at the right time.