Arsenal defender Dan Ballard is ready to become Vincent Kompany’s first signing for Burnley in a £2million transfer

ARSENAL defender Daniel Ballard is close to a £2million move to Burnley.

New boss Vincent Kompany is desperate for defensive reinforcements as skipper Ben Mee and James Tarkowski are expected to leave on a free transfer following their relegation from the Premier League.

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But after their offer was accepted by The Gunners, Ballard will now discuss personal terms with the Clarets before undergoing a medical.

Kompany’s legacy at Manchester City is said to have played a big part in convincing the 22-year-old to join him at Turf Moor.

Ballard has not made a competitive first-team appearance for Mikel Arteta’s side.

However, the club inserted a clause that allows them to match future bids.

After a stint at Blackpool, the centre-back joined Millwall on loan and made 33 appearances in all competitions for the Lions.

Gary Rowett’s side initially had no commitment to buy the centre-back but were keen to bring him back to the club.

He has been capped 15 times by Northern Ireland and faced Kosovo in the Nations League earlier this month.

Ballard will join another youngster leaving the Emirates in the last few days.

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Tyreece John-Jules is on a one-season loan to Ipswich Town.

And former Manchester United manager Kieran McKenna, now Portman Road boss, is delighted to have landed the youngster.

He said: “There is a lot to admire in Tyreece’s game.

“He’s someone I’ve known and followed through his youthful career at Arsenal and in the England setup.

“He’s a really talented and versatile striker who can play in a lot of different positions.

“He has a very high technical level and can play with both feet.

“When he is in consistent form he is an extremely talented player with a lot of potential. We are very happy to have him on board.”