Millwall interested in signing Arsenal defender – but priority investment will be for attacking areas

Millwall are very interested in a permanent deal for Arsenal defender Dan Ballard after it was claimed today that the Northern Ireland international could be made available this summer.

The centre-back spent the last Championship campaign on loan with the Lions and was a regular in their starting line-up, only dropping out due to injuries.

But the South London Press understands the primary focus in this window for Millwall is to strengthen their attacking options and invest significantly in that area.

Lions boss Gary Rowett has already highlighted the need for some quality additions at the top end of the pitch, especially with the risk that Jed Wallace will leave on a free transfer this summer.

Millwall have offered Wallace new terms but is free to explore his options and had been a top priority signing for Forest in the January transfer window. A deal could not be agreed between the two clubs.

Ballard, 22, opted to sign for the Lions instead of making a loan return to Blackpool, who he won the League One play-offs with in the previous campaign.

He made 30 Championship appearances for Rowett’s side.