Burnley land eye-catching transfer deal days before Sunderland clash as England international signs
Burnley have strengthened their squad ahead of the Sunderland clash by completing a loan deal
Burnley have moved to strengthen their squad ahead of Monday night’s meeting with Sunderland after completing a loan deal for James Ward-Prowse from West Ham United.
The experienced midfielder joins the Clarets until the end of the season as Scott Parker’s side attempt to reignite their survival push, with Burnley currently sitting second bottom of the Premier League table and 10 points adrift of safety.
Ward-Prowse, 31, arrives with a wealth of top-flight experience, having made more than 400 Premier League appearances during spells with Southampton and West Ham. His arrival adds leadership and set-piece quality to a Burnley side still searching for consistency. Speaking after the move was confirmed, Ward-Prowse admitted the decision to join Burnley was a straightforward one.
“I’m really pleased to be here,” he Ward-Prowse said in a club statement. “As soon as I heard of Burnley’s interest and spoke to the manager, I knew this loan spell was just what I needed. There’s a big battle between now and the end of the season, but I’m going to relish every moment. I just want to get out there, pull on the Burnley shirt and give my all for the challenge that’s ahead.”
The deal follows a drawn-out process earlier in the window. Talks between Burnley and West Ham had taken place previously without reaching a conclusion, leading to suggestions that the move had stalled. However, negotiations resumed earlier this week, with Ward-Prowse completing his medical before the transfer was finalised. Burnley had yet to make a signing this window, making Ward-Prowse their first addition of January as they look to address their position near the foot of the table. From Sunderland’s perspective, the timing of the deal adds an extra layer of intrigue ahead of Monday’s clash.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
Burnley arrive on Wearside having reinforced a midfield that has at times lacked control and composure, while also adding a proven Premier League figure accustomed to pressure situations. Though it remains to be seen whether the midfielder will play at the Stadium of Light. Ward-Prowse’s move comes after West Ham informed the midfielder that he was not part of their long-term plans. He has not featured under new head coach Nuno Espírito Santo, although he was named on the substitutes’ bench during West Ham’s recent 3-1 win over Sunderland.
What other transfer news is there?
Sunderland have been linked with a possible double transfer move as fresh reports connect the Black Cats with attacking and defensive targets across Europe during the latter stages of the January window.
One of those links centres on Paris FC winger Ilan Kebbal, with reports suggesting Ipswich Town are preparing a sizeable bid for the Sunderland-linked forward. The 27-year-old had been placed on Sunderland’s radar earlier this month, with claims that Régis Le Bris’ side were among several Premier League clubs keeping close tabs on his situation.
While Ipswich pursue Kebbal, Sunderland have also been linked with defensive reinforcements following Arthur Masuaku’s departure earlier this window. Reports suggest the Black Cats are among the clubs tracking Lecce left-back Antonino Gallo, alongside Celtic. The 26-year-old has been a consistent performer in Serie A and has built an impressive body of work since joining Lecce from Virtus Francavilla in 2020. Gallo has made 175 first-team appearances, contributing one goal and 10 assists, and is viewed as a reliable option on the left side of defence.