Sources: Burnley in talks to sign attacker who left Rangers this year
Burnley are in talks to sign ex-Rangers star Rabbi Matondo despite rival interest, sources have told Football Insider.
Matondo, who left Ibrox in March, is a free agent after ending his short-term spell with SK Brann in Norway before the end of the transfer window, and is eyeing a number of possible destinations.
The 25-year-old former Man City academy star could now be set for a return to the North West after discussions with Nicky Hayen's side over the possibility of a move.
A 15-cap Wales international, Matondo is also attracting interest from his former club Cercle Brugge, where he enjoyed arguably the best spell in his career to date.
The winger scored nine goals and registered two assists in 26 Belgian Pro League appearances, starting 23 games, and a return is believed to be of interest to him.
Fellow Belgian club SV Zulte Waregem, managed by his former Rangers manager Michael Beale, are also keen to rival Burnley in their interest in the coming days.
Why are Burnley interested in signing Rabbi Matondo?
Matondo has been very highly regarded in different stages of his career, including during his spell at Rangers, where he also attracted interest from Premier League clubs.
Having spent time in Norway, Germany, Belgium and Scotland all inside the last four years, he could now be tempted to return to English football with Burnley.
The Clarets have endured a nightmare start to the season, currently sit bottom of the Championship, and are without a win in five league games so far.
Matondo is being targeted as an option to improve Hayen's squad in the coming days, with the boss still dissatisfied with his squad after the end of the transfer window.
Despite the number of attacking options already on the books at Turf Moor, Matondo's ability to play on both sides has made him an attractive prospect on a free transfer.
However, the interest from Belgian clubs where the winger has previously had success could throw a spanner in the works for Burnley as they try to get a deal done.
Why have Burnley been active in the free agent market?
Matondo is not the only free agent who has been on Burnley's radar following the close of the transfer window, with work still ongoing behind the scenes.
The Clarets completed a surprise move to sign Leicester City legend Jamie Vardy, who had been a free agent following his departure from Serie A side Cremonese in June.
However, concerns have been raised about the deal, after former West Ham scout Mick Brown warned Football Insider that his old club should steer clear of a move for Vardy.
While there is an understanding that his name and reputation will have made him an enticing prospect, they have been urged to be realistic about his current abilities.
Burnley ultimately decided to take the gamble, despite rival interest from Wrexham and Sheffield Wednesday, and hope he can play a big role in turning around their fortunes.