Promoted Team Preview: Vincent Kompany’s Burnley look to surprise
By Evan Curnew
The biggest question so far this off-season for Burnley is can they bring back Nathan Tella and Ian Maatsen? Tella has rejoined recently relegated Southampton following his loan spell at Burnley, but given the club’s promotion, it is likely the forward wants a permanent move to Turf Moof. In fact, The Athletic is reporting that the former Arsenal academy player wants to rejoin Vincent Kompany’s side, but the price is currently a big talking point. Tella still has two years left on his contract at Southampton, and the south coast club will surely want him to stay for their own promotion push.
Ian Maatsen is contracted to Chelsea, who surely won’t be sticking around under Mauricio Pochettino. Despite a fantastic season in the Championship, the fullback will see his future lie elsewhere, and Burnley will hope it is with them. Andy Jones & Liam Twomey has reported that Burnley sent a £15M bid recently that was rejected for Maatsen as Chelsea continues to hold out for £20M. It’s thought a comprise between those two numbers could happen this summer.
Recent transfer links link the club to Sunderland’s Jack Clarke, who is currently negotiating with the Black Cats to continue his stay at the Stadium of Light.
Another question that will have to be asked… who shares time at centre-forward with Jay Rodriguez? Club legend Ashley Barnes has left the club to join Norwich City after nine years at Turf Moor. Wout Weghorst’s future at the club is uncertain, especially after a terrible cameo at Manchester United under fellow Dutchmen Erik ten Hag. Perhaps looking at some of last season’s opponents could provide an area of transfer interest. Middlesborough’s Chuba Akpom has just a year left on his current contract and will likely garner Premier League interest. Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres who plays with Coventry is already on the shortlists of Everton and Wolves. Even Swansea’s Joel Piroe could be an intriguing option for Burnley.
If you want to guess who the club may sign this summer, keep an eye on Manchester City and Belgian Pro League players. Last summer, Burnley signed Taylor Harwood-Bellis and CJ Egan-Riley from City and seven players from Belgium. Vincent Kompany, indeed has shown his influence on the club’s transfer policy.