Reading FC Team Photo at Bearwood Park. ©JASON DAWSON/JASONPIX For License of Images.
The teenager has secured a one-year loan from the Saints, joining Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan and Sam Smith in the striker department.
Reading’s first incoming of deadline day, his arrival has been hotly anticipated since news broke yesterday.
Only with two first-team appearances, Ballard has scored two hattricks in three matches for the Under-23s so far this season.
He was nominated for last season’s Player of the Year for the PL2 with 13 goals in 16 matches
This will see the teenager link up with Reading boss Ruben Selles, who gave him three first-team appearances last season as the Saints were relegated from the Premier League.
Head of Football Operations, Mark Bowen, said: “Dom is a gifted young striker with a proven eye for goal – he has been prolific at both Under-18 and Under-21 level and has already taken his first steps in first team football at Southampton.
“Now, he has a platform to earn valuable experience, develop his own game in a highly competitive environment and simply score more goals at senior team level as a Royal. I’m delighted we have been able to bring him into the young, hungry squad we are building at Reading
The 19-year-old has been a free agent since leaving Serie A side Sassuolo over the summer, and has had a trial period in Berkshire.
Featuring for the first-team in a pre-season defeat to Queens Park Rangers, the Republic of Ireland youth international has impressed Noel Hunt and Ruben Selles.
According to Gavin Cooney of Ireland AM, the left-back is set to sign a permanent deal with the club.
Playing predominantly for the Under-23s, similar to summer signing Tivonge Rushesha, he could force his way into contention with performances.
As a free agent, this deal does not need to be completed by the 11 pm deadline.
The youngster arrives after cutting his deal at Bundesliga side Stuttgart short.
A former England Under-21 international, the versatile defender spent some of last season on loan with Blackburn Rovers but played just four times after suffering with injuries.
Having spent time in Chelsea’ illustrious academy, Mola comes to provide competition at centre-back, full-back and even in midfield
He is the club’s second deadline day signing, following shortly after forward Dom Ballard.
Head of Football Operations, Mark Bowen, said: “A left-sided player who is capable of playing in either a holding midfield role or as part of the back line, Clinton has an opportunity to earn consistent first team football at Reading. He has the ability to make a real impact as a Royal this season and I look forward to following his progress.
