Burnley Land Kyle Walker in Surprise Transfer Deal

In one of the most unexpected moves of the summer, Burnley are set to complete the signing of Manchester City veteran Kyle Walker for a reported fee of $6.3 million, with the defender already undergoing a medical.

Walker, 34, is expected to sign a two-year contract with the newly promoted Premier League side. The move signals a major statement from Burnley, who are seeking top-flight stability under the guidance of new manager Scott Parker Walker's former teammate at Tottenham Hotspur.

According to The Guardian and Sky Sports News, all parties have reached an agreement and a formal announcement is imminent. The fee is considered symbolic, with Manchester City primarily motivated by salary savings rather than transfer profit. The deal will reportedly save City close to $13 million in wages over the next two seasons.

Walker’s time at Manchester City has been nothing short of historic. Since joining from Spurs in 2017, he has made 319 appearances for the club and played a vital role in six Premier League title wins, two FA Cups, four Carabao Cups, and the 2022–23 UEFA Champions League triumph. He also has 96 caps for England and was part of multiple major tournament squads.

Last season, the right-back spent the second half on loan at AC Milan, where he impressed with his athleticism and leadership in Serie A. Despite speculation about an extension in Italy or a potential MLS switch, Walker has chosen to return to England and reunite with Parker at Turf Moor.

For Burnley, this is a move rooted in both ambition and pragmatism. Parker is aiming to inject experience into a youthful squad that struggled with discipline and depth during their previous Premier League stint. Walker brings elite-level experience, tactical intelligence, and much-needed leadership to the Clarets' back line.

City, on the other hand, continue to reshape their squad as manager Pep Guardiola transitions away from the old guard. With Walker's exit and João Cancelo’s likely departure, City are expected to pursue new defensive signings in the coming weeks.

The deal is expected to be announced officially within the next 48 hours.

 
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