Ronnie Edwards of Peterborough United would be an ideal substitute for Dan Ballard at Sunderland if the centre-back moves to Everton.
Sunderland is once again in for a busy summer as they prepare for another season in the Championship.
Sunderland’s summer transfer plans
Of course, the top priority for the Black Cats’ hierarchy is to appoint a new manager, and it will be interesting to watch who they choose.
Despite the turbulent previous 12 months at the Stadium of Light, the Sunderland position will be appealing, and there will undoubtedly be a number of high-profile applicants in the running.
While the attention will be on the next CEO, the summer will also be a busy period for recruitment.
There is widespread agreement that Jack Clarke will be on the move, with the winger having had another exceptional individual season, which is sure to spark bids from Premier League clubs.
Ronnie Edwards should be a Sunderland transfer target
However, Everton are said to be interested in key centre-back Dan Ballard, so Clarke may not be the only one leaving.
The Northern Irish international has been outstanding this season, and at 24, he is still growing better, so it would not be surprising if the Toffees make a substantial offer for Ballard if Jarrad Branthwaite is sold.
Obviously, Sunderland wants to keep Ballard, but you have to be realistic, and part of the Wearside club’s approach is to not stand in the way of appropriate offers.
As a result, the Black Cats must investigate replacements for Ballard, and Peterborough’s Ronnie Edwards meets all of the criteria.
At 20, the centre-back has already made over 100 Football League matches, including a season in the Championship, so he won’t require time to adjust.
Given his age, he also matches the profile Sunderland seeks, since they have historically preferred players who can be developed and potentially sold on, such as Ballard.
Edwards, a defender, shares many attributes with the former Arsenal youth, such as being brave, positioning himself properly, and enjoying the physical aspect of the game. Furthermore, he can bring the ball out, which is why he is so well regarded.
Edwards’ qualities have put him on the radar of various Premier League clubs, including Newcastle and West Ham, who have previously expressed interest.
Sunderland can offer first-team football
The appeal of a top-flight move for Edwards is apparent, but the fact that he has remained with the Posh over the last five years demonstrates that he understands the value of playing week in and week out.
And this could offer Sunderland an advantage if they make a genuine bid for the player.
Unlike any Premier League club, Edwards would undoubtedly be a starter for the Black Cats, and playing in the Championship will be great for his development, with the ambition of reaching the top level with Sunderland.
Fans will be concerned about losing Ballard, and it’s understandable why.
Ultimately, however, this is part of Sunderland’s strategy, and clubs such as Brighton and Brentford have demonstrated that you can be successful while trading vital players.
If Edwards comes to replace Ballard, coupled with a big profit, it would be a fantastic start for Sunderland as they seek to follow that path.
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