Cambridge United sign Southampton striker Dom Ballard on loan for the rest of the season

Cambridge United boss Garry Monk has landed one of his “primary targets” in the January transfer window.

The U’s have made their second loan signing of the day by bringing in Dom Ballard from Southampton until the end of the season.

“I am delighted to welcome Dom to the club,” said boss Monk.

“He has been one of our primary targets throughout the month so to get him through the door is very pleasing.

“He is a talented young striker and is ready to make an impact on the team.”

Ballard spent the first half of the campaign on loan at fellow League 1 side Blackpool.

Ironically, his only goal came in the 4-4 draw at Cambridge in August.

Ballard is an England under-20 international who also scored on his Saints first-team debut in the EFL Cup against Cambridge in August 2022.

Ballard, who will wear shirt number 29, said: “I am really looking forward to it. Hopefully, I can come in and really make a difference to the team.

“The gaffer has said that they are in need of a goalscorer and a hero and that really appealed to me.”