In a surprising turn of events, Kyle Walker is reportedly on the verge of joining Burnley after an eight-year stint with Manchester City. The England international's potential move to the newly-promoted side has emerged as one of the more unexpected transfer stories of the summer.
Walker, 35, fell out of favor with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola last season, which prompted him to request a transfer during the January window. Although a permanent move didn't materialize at the time, he joined AC Milan on a short-term loan. However, his time in Italy wasn't particularly successful, as the Rossoneri struggled, and Walker didn't establish himself as a key player.
Now, Walker is set to return to the Premier League with Burnley, managed by Scott Parker. According to reports, the defender is already undergoing medical tests with the club. A two-year deal is on the table, and the transfer could be worth up to £5 million with add-ons.
For Manchester City, this move would be financially beneficial, as they are set to save around £10 million per season by offloading one of their highest earners. Furthermore, Walker's departure would mark the end of an era, as he has been one of the club's longest-serving players, winning 17 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the 2022/23 Champions League.
The move would also reunite Walker with Scott Parker, as the two were teammates at Tottenham Hotspur between 2011 and 2013. Parker will be hoping that Walker's wealth of Premier League experience, accumulated over 410 appearances, will prove invaluable as Burnley aims to maintain their top-flight status.
Walker's arrival would be a significant coup for Burnley, adding considerable quality and experience to their squad. He is expected to compete with Connor Roberts for the right-back spot. Walker would become Burnley's fifth signing of the summer, joining Max Weiss, Quilindschy Hartman, Axel Tuanzebe and Loum Tchouana.
Other sources indicate Walker had agreed to join Everton. Also, there were reports of interest from Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce.
Burnley have been busy in the transfer market this summer, with manager Scott Parker keen to build a squad capable of competing in the Premier League. The club has already made several signings, including Marcus Edwards, Jaidon Anthony, and Bashir Humphreys.