Manchester City and England star Kyle Walker is reportedly on the verge of an unexpected transfer to newly promoted Burnley.
The veteran defender fell out of favor with Pep Guardiola last season and sought a transfer in the January window. However, he was unable to secure a permanent move and ended up on a short-term loan to AC Milan, where he faced additional challenges as the team finished eighth in Serie A.
Now, it looks like Kyle Walker, who boasts 96 caps for England, is poised to join Burnley, with Scott Parker’s team emerging as a surprising destination for the 35-year-old. According to The Athletic, Walker is already undergoing a medical examination.
The deal proposed is for two years and could amount to £5 million, depending on performance-related add-ons. This transfer also benefits Manchester City, who stand to save around £10 million per season by offloading one of their top earners.
This move would reunite Kyle Walker and Scott Parker, who were teammates at Tottenham from 2011 to 2013. Walker’s extensive experience in the Premier League, where he has played 410 matches, will be invaluable for Burnley as they aim to establish themselves in the top tier after finishing second in the Championship last season.
Burnley and Leeds both finished with 100 points, but Burnley fell short due to goal difference. They are returning to the Premier League after spending one season in the Championship, where they ended their last league campaign in 19th place.
Kyle Walker, a product of the Sheffield United academy, has enjoyed a successful career, winning six Premier League titles during his eight years with City, along with the Champions League, three League Cups, two FA Cups, and the Club World Cup. His last appearance for City was in a 4-1 victory over West Ham in January.
