Burnley have secured the permanent signings of Jaidon Anthony, Marcus Edwards, Bashir Humphreys and Zian Flemming following their promotion from the Championship.
Scott Parker’s side finished level on 100 points with Leeds United but were edged out for the title on goal difference after a dramatic final-day twist. Despite the disappointment, the club have pressed ahead with their transfer plans as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
Four ‘new’ faces
Winger Anthony, 25, joins permanently from Bournemouth after an impressive campaign that saw him register eight goals in 43 appearances. Edwards, 26, made the switch from Sporting CP in January and scored twice in 16 outings, adding flair and control in the final third.
Defender Humphreys made 28 appearances on loan from Chelsea, offering composure and consistency at the back. Millwall loanee Flemming, meanwhile, was one of the standout performers—netting 14 goals in 37 appearances and forming a crucial part of Burnley’s promotion push.
Burnley also confirmed that Jeremy Sarmiento will return to Brighton & Hove Albion after his loan spell, making him the only one of the five temporary signings not to remain at Turf Moor.
Contract situation
Elsewhere, there is growing uncertainty over the futures of CJ Egan-Riley, Josh Brownhill and Ashley Barnes. All three are out of contract this summer, though talks remain ongoing. Egan-Riley has attracted interest from Strasbourg, who are believed to have tabled a five-year deal. The 22-year-old centre-back played a pivotal role alongside Maxime Esteve, helping the Clarets record 30 clean sheets and concede just 16 goals in the league.
Brownhill, Burnley’s captain, is also expected to receive offers after an 18-goal campaign from midfield, while Barnes—who rejoined in January—made 16 appearances and provided vital leadership during the run-in.
The club also confirmed that a host of players will return from loan, including Hjalmar Ekdal, Hannes Delcroix, Owen Dodgson, Han-Noah Massengo and Michael Obafemi. Meanwhile, several academy contracts have been extended, and terms have been offered to key U18 and U21 prospects.
Writer’s View
Burnley’s early business sends a clear message: they’re planning to be competitive in the Premier League. Locking down Anthony, Edwards, Humphreys and Flemming ensures continuity and rewards players who were vital to their success.
There’s still uncertainty surrounding some key contracts, particularly that of CJ Egan-Riley, whose rise has been one of the stories of the season. If Burnley can retain his services alongside Brownhill and Barnes, they’ll be going into the new campaign with a strong core—and with Scott Parker at the helm, the Clarets will be aiming to avoid the mistakes of past Premier League visits.
