Defender John Stones, formerly of Manchester City, transfers to Burnley in a recent development.
Kyle Walker, the experienced English defender, has completed a surprising transfer from Manchester City to newly-promoted Burnley, marking the start of a new chapter in his illustrious career. The deal, worth up to £5 million, including performance-related bonuses, was finalized on Saturday.
After spending eight years at Manchester City, Walker signed a two-year contract with Burnley, a move that comes after he had entered the final year of his contract at City, allowing Manchester City to save around £10 million on his remaining salary.
The move to Burnley comes after a season on loan at AC Milan, where Milan declined to make his deal permanent, leading to his return to Manchester City. However, his future at City was uncertain, as he did not travel with their squad to the FIFA Club World Cup, signaling they were open to transferring him.
Scott Parker, the Burnley manager, welcomed the arrival of Walker as a major leadership and experience boost for the newly promoted side. Parker and Walker know each other from their time together at Tottenham and as England teammates, making this reunion at Burnley particularly significant.
The transfer is seen as a significant coup for Burnley, providing Premier League experience and defensive solidity. With 410 appearances in the Premier League to his name and six Premier League titles won with Manchester City, Walker brings a wealth of experience to the Burnley squad.
Walker expressed his delight about joining Burnley, stating that he is looking forward to helping the club establish themselves in the Premier League and working under the guidance of Scott Parker once again.
The deal marks the end of Walker's trophy-laden tenure at Manchester City, where he won the Champions League, and the beginning of a new challenge as he returns to England's top flight with Burnley.
Burnley achieved a 100-point haul in guiding the club back to the Premier League, and the addition of Walker to their squad is a clear indication of their ambition to remain in the top flight. As the 2025/26 Premier League season approaches, Burnley fans can look forward to seeing Walker in action.
Walker's signing with Burnley, a move fueled by his returning English top-flight ambition, marks a significant step for the newly-promoted side, as they aim to maintain their presence in European-leagues like the Premier League. The experienced defender brings Premier League experience and defensive solidity, having made 410 appearances and won six titles in the competition during his time at Manchester City.
