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Don Goodman has given his verdict on Sunderland's £12-15m price tag for Dan Ballard

Don Goodman has claimed that a deal between Sunderland and Sheffield United for Dan Ballard might suit all parties.

According to Alan Nixon, the Black Cats have set an asking price of around £12m to £15m for the defender ahead of the summer transfer window.

Ballard has been a regular presence for Sunderland, when available, ever since his arrival from Arsenal in 2022.

It was exclusively revealed by Football League World earlier this month that the Blades have shortlisted the 25-year-old as a potential option, but only should they gain promotion to the Premier League.

Don Goodman makes Dan Ballard transfer claim

Goodman has suggested that Ballard could be one of Sunderland’s more sellable assets this summer given the defensive pecking order under Régis Le Bris this season.

He also believes that the centre-back would be an upgrade on Chris Wilder’s current options, suggesting it could be a deal that makes sense, although it will depend on both clubs’ league status for next season.

“He’s another young player, Dan Ballard, that we’ve seen grow up in the EFL,” Goodman exclusively told Football League World.

“He’s 25-years-old now, bit of an injury-hit season, and then even when he got back fit he wasn’t getting a place in the Sunderland team straight away.

“From a Sunderland perspective you kind of feel that he would be one of the youngsters, if they can get money for him, that they would be willing to do a deal on.

“From Sheffield United’s point of view, he would probably be an upgrade on what they have in the building at the moment.

“But in terms of them being in the Premier League, if they get in the top two and that’s looking a long shot, and Sunderland win the play-offs, would you swap Sunderland for Sheffield United?

“There are so many things to think about in that but, as I say, I think my biggest takeaway from the question is that Dan Ballard would be an upgrade on a lot of what Sheffield United have in that position at the moment.”

Ballard has made 19 appearances in the Championship so far this season.

Ballard deal would make sense for all parties

Ballard’s not had his best season for Sunderland, but is still proven as a solid Championship defender with the potential to compete at Premier League level.

A deal around the £12 million mark will depend on how much Sheffield United want to spend this summer, as it could be quite pricey if they want to keep it tight and prepare to go back down from the Premier League, if promoted.

However, if the new owners are ready to back Wilder in the market then Ballard would be a sensible option to upgrade their defensive options.

The 25-year-old’s injury issues are a concern, which is why Sheffield United should not go much higher than the £12 or 13 million figure being touted.