Southampton striker Dom Ballard is set to sign for League One side Reading on a season-long loan deal subject to a medical, according to journalist Alfie House.
The 18-year-old has played a starring role for the club U21s, averaging almost a goal every game for the football club and made his first-team debut under current Reading boss Ruben Selles last season and is set for a reunion.
Who is Dom Ballard?
The striker is a product of the Southampton youth setup and has made three first-team appearances as well as shining at youth level. Ballard has scored six goals in three appearances in the Premier League 2 this season as well as 25 goals in 31 appearances last season, but is in desperate need of first-team football.
The youngster has also made his England youth debut, featuring in the club’s U17s and U18s, scoring three goals in six appearances, including a brace against the Faroe Islands in a 2-1 win.
Making room
Southampton have had a bid accepted for Sunderland’s Ross Stewart, whilst Che Adams is set to move to Premier League side Wolves. With the Saints having Stewart and Armstrong as well as various other options, it opens the door for the youngster to depart.
Likewise, Reading has offloaded Andy Carroll and has created a gap to secure another forward signing before the 11 p.m. deadline.
What’s been said?
Journalist Alfie House confirmed the news on Twitter by stating…
”Dom Ballard is set to join Reading on loan, as rumours have suggested. Links up with former coach Ruben Selles, who gave him three appearances.’
Writer’s View
Ballard is arguably one of the hottest prospects in English football at the moment and it will be extremely intriguing to see how he gets on in what will be his first senior loan spell in his career so far.
He will have the opportunity to reunite with his old manager, as well as work with several experienced players, which will only bolster his development moving forward.
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