Burnley

Stoke City bring in ‘winner’ and the Zoom call that sealed transfer

30/06/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City head coach Steven Schumacher was notably impressed during a Zoom chat that played a pivotal role in finalizing the signing of Ben Gibson. Both Schumacher and Gibson were in sync when the defender interrupted his family holiday to discuss his potential move to Stoke City. Gibson, a 31-year-old center-half, joins Stoke as a free agent following his successful tenure at Norwich, where he helped the team reach the play-offs in the last year of his contract. Schumacher was keen on bringing in experience and leadership to his squad, which had lacked players aged 30 or above starting 20 or more league games in the previous season.

Schumacher shared his thoughts on Gibson, highlighting his strong references and impressive career, which includes numerous promotions from the Championship. He emphasized the importance of leadership and a winning mentality within the dressing room, qualities that Gibson exemplifies. Schumacher’s positive external references about Gibson further reinforced his decision, portraying Gibson as a dedicated professional and a winner—traits crucial for the team’s growth.

Transfer gossip: Sunderland slap ‘£30m’ price on star man amid Wolves and Crystal Palace interest

26/06/2024 Raymond 0

Sunderland are reportedly demanding between £25 million and £30 million for their attacker, Jack Clarke, amid significant transfer speculation. Clarke has attracted interest from several clubs, including Burnley, Lazio, and Southampton, following an impressive Championship season with 15 goals and four assists. Recently, Premier League clubs Wolves and Crystal Palace have also been linked with a move for Clarke. It appears unlikely that Clarke will renew his contract with Sunderland, which has two years remaining, and Tottenham is set to receive a percentage of any transfer fee.

Two chats that secured Stoke City’s second transfer of the summer

17/06/2024 Raymond 0

Ben Gibson revealed that he had candid conversations with his friend Jon Walters while deciding if Stoke City was the right club for him. The centre-back, leaving Norwich City after four years and a successful season finishing in the Championship play-off places, had several offers but wanted a clear picture of what was happening inside Stoke before committing.

Gibson emphasized the importance of the club’s direction over its facilities and history. “I’ve spoken about the magnitude of the club, the unbelievable owners, the facilities, the stadium, but what really matters to me is where are we heading?” he said. He made it clear that if Stoke’s aim was only to replicate last season or settle as a mid-table Championship team, he wouldn’t have signed. Gibson also spoke with head coach Steven Schumacher to ensure everyone at Stoke shared the same vision, noting that aligning with the manager’s style of play was crucial.

Former Sheffield Wednesday boss linked with potential Championship return

17/06/2024 Raymond 0

Former Sheffield Wednesday manager Steve Bruce has been linked with a potential surprise return to the Championship this coming season. Bruce’s departure from the Owls in 2019, after a very brief stint at Hillsborough, left many fans in South Yorkshire displeased despite the decent compensation Wednesday received when he joined Newcastle United. Journalist Alan Nixon reports that Bruce is among the names being considered by Burnley as they search for Vincent Kompany’s successor. Although Bruce is not high on the list, Burnley is reportedly keen to bring in a big name following Kompany’s move to Bayern Munich.

Latest Liam Rosenior and Frank Lampard reports as Burnley and Sunderland look to make appointments

17/06/2024 Raymond 0

There is buzzing news from the Championship, particularly regarding Sunderland’s league rival, Burnley, who are also in the process of appointing a new head coach. Former Hull manager Liam Rosenior, once considered for the Burnley position, is reportedly no longer a candidate. Rosenior, who had been in the running for Sunderland’s head coach position, initially engaged in talks with the club’s top officials. However, these discussions did not advance as Sunderland decided to explore other options.

Fabrizio Romano shares a major update on Newcastle’s James Trafford interest

10/06/2024 Raymond 0

Newcastle United’s pursuit of James Trafford from Burnley is progressing well. Initially, Newcastle officials deemed Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili too expensive, making a move for the 21-year-old Trafford increasingly likely. Reports confirmed that Newcastle has made a £16 million offer for Trafford, whose move is also driven by Burnley’s financial needs.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has updated that Newcastle has agreed on personal terms with Trafford, with a new proposal around £15 million with performance-based add-ons expected soon. Trafford is eager to move to St James’ Park, although he is not immediately set to replace Nick Pope as the starting goalkeeper. This move signifies Newcastle’s long-term planning, with Trafford seen as a future first-choice goalkeeper.

Ex-Chelsea and Everton man addresses job speculation after Sunderland, Burnley and Rangers links

09/06/2024 Raymond 0

Frank Lampard, the former England, Derby County, Chelsea, and Everton player, has been linked with numerous managerial roles. Recently, he revealed that he has turned down several job offers, although he is keen to return to full-time management. Lampard, who managed Chelsea and Everton, was rumored to be a contender for the Sunderland head coach position following Tony Mowbray’s dismissal last season. While bookmakers frequently list him as a potential candidate for Sunderland’s next head coach, Lampard has chosen to wait for the right opportunity. Reflecting on this, he mentioned that although some opportunities did not feel right, he now feels ready to resume his career. “I’m certainly ready to work. I love doing what I do, so we will see,” he said.

The 45-year-old, who also managed Derby County, has enjoyed his break from football, noting that the intense nature of management often overshadows personal life. During his hiatus, he valued the time spent with his young family. Since his stint as Chelsea’s caretaker manager in 2023, Lampard has been linked to various roles, including positions at Canada, Rangers, Burnley, and Birmingham City. On air, he shared that while he appreciates the importance of working, the year off allowed him to focus on his family life, which includes his four children, two of whom are very young. He mentioned that this time away has also provided him the opportunity to reflect, watch games, and continue his professional development.