Robins sign Leyton Orient striker Ballard

Bristol City have signed Leyton Orient forward Dom Ballard on a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee. The Robins took their tally of newcomers this summer to eight by landing the 21-year-old, who topped the League One goalscoring charts last season. Ballard scored 23 goals in 40 league appearances for the London club, despite the fact they finished one place above the relegation zone. New manager Michael Skubala spoke in a BBC Radio Bristol interview about the need to add "pace and power" in forward positions ahead of Ballard's signing being confirmed. Ballard made his senior debut for Southampton with a goal against Cambridge United in the EFL Cup as a 17-year-old in 2022 and went on to have loan spells at Reading, Blackpool and Cambridge United. It was the move to Brisbane Road last summer which ignited his career, however, as he ended up named in the League One Player of the Season and was named Orient's Player of the Season. "Along with our other front-line players, we now have options for Michael and his staff to have different approaches and selections where required in what will be a highly competitive season," said Bristol City sporting director James Ellis. "Dom is only 21 years old and already has a proven record of scoring goals. He has a big future ahead of him and we're and we're excited to see how he develops over the coming years." Bristol City sign striker Tolaj from Plymouth Bristol City sign goalkeeper Collins Latest Bristol City news, analysis and fan views