Sunderland Round-Up: Ballard Signs New Deal, Plus Duo Wanted

Sunderland Round-Up: Dan Ballard Signs Plus EPL Clubs Want Clarke and Patterson

Dan Ballard Signs New Contract

Central defender Dan Ballard ended any transfer talk today by signing a new long-term deal. The 24-year-old has been linked with a move to the Premier League and France this summer after impressing for the Black Cats since joining from Arsenal in 2022.

The Northern Ireland international has signed a deal which could keep him on Wearside until 2028 having put pen to paper on a one-year extension.

After signing, Ballard said: “Sunderland gave me the opportunity to come and play in the Championship and I’ve really enjoyed my time here so far.

“When they came forward to talk about a new deal, it was the only thing I wanted to do, so I’m delighted to have signed it. I’m now looking forward to the season.”

Newly Promoted Ipswich Town Want Jack Clarke

According to the Sunderland Echo and iNews, Ipswich Town are keen on signing winger Jack Clarke. The reports suggested that the newly promoted Tractor Boys are lining up an £18 million bid. However, reports also believe that Sunderland would have to give 40% of that to Tottenham Hotspur due to a sell-on clause being inserted in the deal that took him to Sunderland.

With this being the case, the Black Cats are likely to hold out for as much as they can get for their star man who has two years left on his current contract.

Manchester City Could Turn to Anthony Patterson

According to Graeme Baily of HITC and James Copley of the Sunderland Echo, should Manchester City allow goalkeeper Ederson to leave, they could turn to Black Cats shot-stopper Anthony Patterson.

The highly-rated 24-year-old has been Sunderland’s number one for two and a half years making 123 appearances in all competitions.

The boyhood Sunderland fan is not believed to be looking to move on and the club do not need or want to sell; however, should City come calling with a big offer, this could all change quickly.