Expected key new Leeds United rivals strike huge deal to sign England international star from Manchester City
Burnley Seal Sensational £5m Deal for Manchester City and England Star Kyle Walker as Premier League Rivals Prepare for New Campaign
Burnley have pulled off a major coup in the transfer market by securing the signing of experienced England international Kyle Walker from Manchester City. The 34-year-old right-back, who boasts an impressive trophy-laden spell at the Etihad Stadium, is set to become one of the headline arrivals at Turf Moor this summer.
Walker spent the latter half of last season out on loan at Serie A giants AC Milan, but now appears ready for a fresh challenge in the Premier League. Newly-promoted Burnley have reportedly agreed a deal worth around £5 million with Manchester City to bring the veteran defender to Lancashire.
According to a report from Sky Sports, Walker underwent and successfully completed his medical on Friday, with the official announcement of the transfer expected to follow in the coming days. The move signals Burnley’s intent to strengthen their squad with top-flight experience as they prepare for what will be a demanding campaign in England’s top tier.
Burnley, managed by Scott Parker, secured automatic promotion back to the Premier League after finishing second behind Leeds United in the Championship last season. The two sides ended the campaign level on points, but Leeds claimed the title on goal difference. Now, as both clubs gear up for life in the Premier League, they may find themselves battling once again — this time to secure survival.
Despite their strong promotion campaign, bookmakers currently rank Burnley among the favourites for relegation. The Clarets sit just above play-off winners Sunderland in the odds, while Leeds, under the guidance of Daniel Farke, are seen as better equipped to avoid the drop thanks to their transfer activity and Premier League pedigree.
Walker’s arrival brings much-needed leadership, quality, and defensive depth to Burnley’s backline. With over a decade of experience in the Premier League and more than 75 England caps to his name, the former Tottenham Hotspur man could be pivotal in helping Burnley stay afloat in the top flight.
For Leeds, the signing could be viewed with some caution, as Burnley’s acquisition of a player of Walker’s calibre represents a clear statement of intent. The battle for survival is already shaping up to be a fiercely competitive one, and every signing — especially one as high-profile as this — could tip the balance.