Bristol City have completed the signing of prolific striker Dom Ballard from Leyton Orient on a four-year contract for an undisclosed fee.
The 21-year-old becomes the Robins’ eighth signing of the summer after an outstanding campaign in League One, where he finished as the division’s top scorer with 23 goals in 40 league appearances.
Despite Leyton Orient ending the season just one place above the relegation zone, Ballard’s impressive performances earned him widespread recognition. He was named League One Player of the Season as well as Orient’s Player of the Season, capping off a breakthrough year at Brisbane Road.
Ballard began his career at Southampton, making an immediate impact by scoring on his senior debut against Cambridge United in the EFL Cup as a 17-year-old. He later gained valuable experience during loan spells with Reading, Blackpool and Cambridge United before flourishing at Leyton Orient.
His arrival comes after new Bristol City manager Michael Skubala highlighted the need to add more “pace and power” to his attacking options ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
Sporting director James Ellis believes Ballard has all the attributes to thrive at Ashton Gate.
“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,” Ellis said.
“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 excited to see how he develops over the coming years.”
Ballard will now look to continue his rapid rise in the Championship as Bristol City aim to challenge near the top of the table this season.