Overview
- Sunderland confirmed the 26-year-old’s deal runs to summer 2029 with a club option for an additional year.
- Director of football Florent Ghisolfi said Ballard embodies the club’s identity and has emerged as a dressing-room leader.
- Coverage frames the move as a clear statement of long-term ambition and protection of a key asset after promotion.
- Since joining from Arsenal in 2022, Ballard has made 114 appearances for Sunderland and scored eight goals.
- This season he has featured 25 times in all competitions with two goals and two assists as a regular under Régis Le Bris.