Birmingham City’s Jay Stansfield transfer record to be broken? Leyton Orient transfer update emerges | OneFootball

Leyton Orient will use Jay Stansfield as a benchmark when it comes to valuing Dom Ballard as transfer interest builds in the attacker.

Leyton Orient have had a difficult campaign after reaching the play-offs last season, although their recent form means they should avoid relegation.

Recording another top six finish was always going to be difficult for Richie Wellens’ side due to the high turnover of players in the summer, and it’s fair to say some of the new recruits from the summer haven’t worked out.

However, one signing that certainly did work out is Dom Ballard, with the forward having enjoyed a brilliant individual season so far, even if Orient have been inconsistent.

The 21-year-old, who had previously been on loan at several League One clubs, has flourished since his permanent switch, scoring 21 goals in 34 games so far.

Leyton Orient use Jay Stansfield as a comparison when it comes to Dom Ballard price tag

That will not have gone unnoticed, and it already seems apparent that the O’s are going to have a battle to retain Ballard beyond the summer, despite the fact he is on a long-term contract.

But, Leyton Orient are not going to be prepared to lose Ballard on the cheap, as journalist Alan Nixon has revealed they are using Jay Stansfield as a benchmark when it comes to valuing their star man.

Birmingham memorably agreed a deal worth in excess of £15m for the attacker with Fulham when they were a League One club, with the transfer setting a record for the third tier.

Stansfield then helped Blues to the title, but he has found things tougher in the Championship this season.

Nevertheless, the update explains that Orient are expecting bids for Ballard, with Nixon stating there are ‘several clubs’ keen on the youngster, but they are determined not to be ‘pushovers’ when it comes to negotiations.

Leyton Orient must stand firm on Dom Ballard valuation this summer

It does seem inevitable that Ballard will depart in the summer. It’s a shame for Orient that this is the case, but the reality is that all clubs in the lower leagues will struggle to keep players if there is Championship interest.

Obviously, there will be major debate over whether he should command anywhere near £15m, and most would agree that does seem excessive, especially when Stansfield hasn’t really lived up to expectations.

But, Orient holds the cards here. Ballard is in good form. He is a young, exciting player who has the potential to get better moving forward. Plus, crucially, he is a goalscorer, and we know how hard they are to find.

So, whilst £15m might seem a lot, Orient are going to make big money on the former Southampton man, and this sends out the message that they won’t roll over and let buying clubs bully them, which is the right thing to do.

Right now, Ballard’s only focus will be ending the season on a high, and he will no doubt be looking to add to his tally, with 25 league goals a realistic target for the player, which would be a fantastic return in his first season with the Londoners.

Then, it seems he will have a big call to make on his future, and it will be intriguing to see if he does secure a move, and what sort of fee that Leyton Orient receive for the forward.