‘Burnley preparing Callum Wilson bid despite foreign interest in striker’
Burnley are lining up a bid for free agent striker Callum Wilson as they prepare for life back in the Premier League, according to reports.
The Clarets hit 100 points in the Championship last season, boasting an incredible defensive record of just 16 goals conceded in 46 matches.
Burnley finished second to Leeds on goal difference, with the Whites outscoring them 95-69.
So, despite earning a promotion back to the top-flight nonetheless, Burnley are looking to bolster their attacking options.
Callum Wilson an ‘active target’ for Burnley
Midfielder Josh Brownhill enjoyed a stunning season in front of goal in 2024/25, netting 18 times in 42 Championship appearances.
However, the 29-year-old is currently a free agent after his contract expired, and although Burnley want to give him a new deal, West Ham and Everton are also understood to be interested.
Behind Brownhill, Dutch forward Zian Flemming was Burnley’s only other player to register double-figure goals, scoring 12 times in 35 Championship outings.
According to The Telegraph’s Mike McGrath, Wilson has been identified as an ‘active target’ for Burnley this summer (22 July).
| Premier League career stats | Callum Wilson |
| Appearances | 239 |
| Goals | 88 |
| Assists | 25 |
Wilson is also a free agent following the expiry of his Newcastle contract, which came off the back of a difficult season in which he managed just one goal in 22 appearances across all competitions.
However, the 33-year-old offers a wealth of Premier League experience, with 88 goals in 239 top-flight games to his name so far — as well as nine caps for the England national team.
Being stuck behind the red-hot Alexander Isak last season undoubtedly affected his output.
Burnley are thought to face competition from both MLS and the Saudi Pro League for Wilson’s signature, while the player has also recently been linked with Everton.
Burnley identifying goalkeeper options alongside Wilson approach
While a new striker appears to be high on Scott Parker’s list, sounding out a new goalkeeper might be the top priority.
James Trafford was sensational in the Championship last season, keeping 29 clean sheets in 45 appearances.
However, that form has caught the eye of both Newcastle United and Manchester City.
The former are long-time admirers and looked to be making progress in bringing him to St. James’ Park last summer. Now, though, the latter have moved to hijack that transfer and look set to bring Trafford back to the Etihad Stadium.
No deal is yet done for Trafford, but former Premier League scout Mick Brown has told Football Insider that Burnley have already been looking at ‘a number of options’ to replace a goalkeeper who will surely be an England No.1 in the near future.
“Burnley have got to look in the market for a replacement,” said Brown.
“They’ve been looking at a number of options, and scouts have been watching players.
“The one they’ve brought in already, I don’t think he’s going to be a replacement for Trafford.
“Scott Parker wants to bring somebody in to nail down that position, and then the other one can provide competition and come in when needed.
“So they’ve been monitoring replacements and I think they’ll make a move as soon as they do agree a deal for Trafford to move on.”