Burnley Set to Finalize Major Transfer
Burnley is on the verge of finalizing a major transfer as they look to secure the signing of Kyle Walker, the experienced right-back currently with Manchester City. The 35-year-old England international is presently undergoing medical assessments, with the English club optimistic about concluding the deal, which they hope will be a pivotal addition to their squad following promotion to the Premier League.
Contract and Financial Details
Once everything is finalized, Walker is anticipated to agree to a two-year contract, which would bring vital skill, expertise, and leadership to head coach Scott Parker‘s team. Notably, Walker’s past connections with Parker—having played together at Tottenham Hotspur from 2011 to 2013—could enhance their synergy on the field.
From a financial perspective, the deal may reach a total of up to £5 million ($6.8 million) for Manchester City if certain performance-related bonuses are met. Furthermore, moving on Walker—one of the club’s longest-tenured athletes and captain last season before his loan to AC Milan—could potentially relieve City of a salary burden estimated around £10 million.
Walker’s Career Highlights
Walker’s current contract with City is set to expire next year, and during his loan at AC Milan, where he made 16 appearances and did not secure a permanent contract after the loan, he contributed to the team’s mixed season, which saw them finish eighth in Serie A and lose in the Coppa Italia final against Bologna.
During his illustrious eight-year spell with City, Walker accrued an impressive 17 trophies, which includes six Premier League titles and a Champions League title from the 2022-23 season. He has also been a consistent presence under England’s national coach, Thomas Tuchel, recently earning his 96th cap despite his team’s loss to Senegal.
Impact on Burnley’s Squad
This anticipated acquisition will mark Burnley’s fourth official signing in what has been an active summer transfer window, complementing the recent arrivals of former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe, left-back Quilindschy Hartman from Feyenoord, and goalkeeper Max Weiss from Karlsruher. Additionally, Burnley has made permanent the loan deals for Bashir Humphreys, Marcus Edwards, and Zian Flemming.
The addition of Walker is expected to bolster Burnley’s Premier League experience, addressing one of the critical challenges they faced during their last season in the top tier, where they were notably lacking in seasoned leadership. While Walker may not be at the height of his career anymore, he remains a valuable acquisition for Parker’s side, which will see competition for his position from Connor Roberts and Oliver Sonne, who joined from Silkeborg earlier this year.
