We are delighted, at 96Partners, that our Official Partners, Burnley FC, have announced that they have made a Premier League signing in Kyle Walker. His experience and winning mindset can add tremendous value as Burnley paves their way back to the Premier League this season.
Their summer transfer window took a surprise twist on July 5, 2025, as Burnley FC acquired 35-year-old Kyle Walker from Manchester City for a reported £5 million in a two-year deal. After 9 years playing at the summit of English football, Kyle Walker’s elite and winning experience will heavily contribute to the decision-making and success of Burnley FC’s return to the Premier League.
Kyle Walker: From Sheffield to Premier League Legend
The defender Kyle Walker’s footballing story starts as part of the youth academy of Sheffield United. In 2008, he appeared for the Blades for the first time and, after a brief loan to Northampton Town, it was clear that he was seen as a developing prospect. Walker signed for Tottenham Hotspur in 2009 but was immediately loaned back to Sheffield United to continue his development.
Walker then gained further experience via loans at Queens Park Rangers (QPR) and Aston Villa, before returning to Spurs and establishing himself as one of the most exciting, consistent right-backs in the Premier League.
In 2017, Walker made the jump to Manchester City for a then-world-record £50 million for a defender. He immediately entered the best time of his career at City, winning countless domestic and international trophies with Pep Guardiola.
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A Glorious Spell at Manchester City
Kyle Walker was part of Pep Guardiola’s system at Manchester City for 8 seasons. Walker’s incredible pace, ineffable tactical awareness, and one-on-one defensive ability made him a vital cog in one of the greatest football dynasties in English football history.
Career Stats with Manchester City (All Competitions)
Kyle Walker made a total of 276 appearances in all competitions for Manchester City, and during that time, he had six goals and 18 assists, as well as 73 Premier League clean sheets. Walker won six Premier League titles (2017–18, 2018–19, 2020–21, 2021–22, 2022–23, 2023–24), two FA Cups, four League Cups, UEFA Champions League 2022–23, UEFA Super Cup 2023, and FIFA Club World Cup in 2024 where he won the Silver Ball Award.
For England, Walker has earned more than 95 caps and has featured in four competitions, in addition to featuring in the semi-final of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2024.
First Interview: Why Kyle Walker Chose Burnley FC
In Walker’s first official interview for Burnley FC, he talked up manager Scott Parker, who got the Clarets back into the Premier League with an incredible 100-point Championship season.
“When I spoke to Scott and heard his plans for next season, it was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down. He has done an amazing job, and I am excited to bring my experiences to the project.” Walker also spoke about his desire to keep performing at the top level and help the team continue to grow, saying, “I still feel sharp. I am not coming here on a farewell tour, I am coming here to compete and contribute every matchday.”
A Statement Signing for Burnley
For Burnley, this isn’t just about a transfer – it’s about a statement of intent. Two seasons after relegation, the club returned to the Premier League with plenty of youth and energy, but now also proven winners such as Kyle Walker to solidify terror on defence.
His addition, alongside others, will potentially provide a defensive upgrade, a leader in the locker room, and a model professional who younger players can emulate.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
Kyle Walker’s transfer to Burnley FC is about much more than a headline transfer; it’s a statement of intent from a club ready to compete at the highest level again with elite players. With Kyle’s leadership, elite experience and winning pedigree, he fits perfectly with a team on the rise. As the Clarets gear up for a demanding Premier League campaign, it is impossible to quantify his presence on the pitch and as a part of the dressing room.
At 96Partners, we are proud to stand with the Clarets as they take major leaps forward with the addition of players like Walker. The future at Turf Moor looks brighter than ever.