Millwall boss Gary Rowett has publicly confirmed that they want to bring Daniel Ballard back, but it’s not clear whether they can afford him.

Recent reports have suggested Arsenal centre-back Daniel Ballard’s loan club – Millwall – would love to keep hold of him this summer.

Speaking to the media this week, Millwall manager Gary Rowett answered a question on whether the club had the financial capabilities for such a move.

“Who knows? I think it’s always a little bit of cat and mouse in any deal, any negotiation, and any price,” Rowett answered.

“Would we want to bring Dan Ballard back to the club at a price that we felt was the right price for us? Of course we would.

“But Arsenal have got a young player and they might have different ideas.

“The point is they may be open to it. We’d certainly be keen if there was an opportunity because he performed so well last year.”

The Evening Standard report that as well as Millwall, QPR are fans of the centre-back, Burnley, Cardiff, Sheffield United, and Stoke have all scouted him, and there’s interest from abroad as well.

Goal had previously written that Arsenal will sell Ballard this summer for the right offer.

The Gunners have held talks with Ballard’s representatives and come to a mutual agreement that the centre-back will be available for transfer in the coming months.

Both the Standard and Goal agree that Arsenal will look to include a buy-back clause or a first refusal clause in any potential deal.

Ballard ended the campaign having made 33 appearances (31 starts), a very solid year considering his mid-season knee surgery.