What Conor Hourihane has said about Barnsley FC moving for Southampton striker Dom Ballard | OneFootball

Barnsley are among the clubs being linked with a move for Southampton forward Dom Ballard

Conor Hourihane has confirmed Barnsley’s interest in signing Southampton forward Dom Ballard this summer.

It was reported earlier this week that the Tykes were among the clubs eyeing a move for the 20-year-old.

The youngster spent last season on loan with both Cambridge United and Blackpool, making a total of 35 appearances in League One across the two stints, scoring three times.

It has been claimed that Ballard is now attracting the attention of Barnsley, Plymouth Argyle, Leyton Orient and Reading, where he previously had a spell on loan during the 2023/24 campaign.

Conor Hourihane opens up on Dom Ballard interest

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Hourihane has confirmed that Ballard is a name being discussed behind the scenes at Oakwell as the club looks to reinforce their attacking options.

However, he’s also revealed that the Tykes have other options, indicating it is far from a done deal that a move can be agreed with Southampton.

"He is a name that has popped up over the last few days,” said Hourihane, via The Yorkshire Post.

"We are trying to add to the squad, whether it is Dom or someone else.

"There's been a name banded around in terms of Dom and he has been discussed. He's a good age and asset, whether it gets done or not, time will tell. But he’s someone who has been discussed, yes.”

Barnsley’s summer business

Barnsley have made a number of signings since confirming the permanent appointment of Hourihane as manager at the start of the summer.

The club completed moves for Tennai Watson, David McGoldrick, Patrick Kelly and Reyes Cleary.

The League One side have also added Nathanael Ogbeta, Murphy Cooper and Caylan Vickers on loan.

Next up for Barnsley is a trip to face AFC Wimbledon on 23 August, with the club eyeing promotion back to the Championship this season.

Dom Ballard signing has potential for Barnsley

Ballard earned some significant experience in League One last year, playing over 1700 minutes at senior level.

While his goal scoring record wasn’t sensational by any means, he is still only 20-years-old and has room to improve.

Adding an extra forward capable of chipping in with a few goals could be what helps Hourihane’s side contend for automatic promotion this year.

They will face competition for his signing, and it’s a positive sign that alternatives are being weighed up if they miss out, but if they can get this move over the line then it has potential to be a smart deal.