Burnley are on the brink of appointing Scott Parker, the former England midfielder, as their new manager.
The 43-year-old has been without a managerial position since March 2023, following his departure from Belgian side Club Bruges, where he managed only two wins in twelve matches.
Parker is well-regarded for his managerial successes in English football, having guided both Fulham and Bournemouth to promotions from the Championship to the Premier League.
His potential appointment at Burnley signifies the club’s ambition to replicate such success, aiming for a swift return to the top tier of English football.
Scott Parker has engaged in a second round of discussions with Burnley’s senior officials this week, solidifying his status as the leading candidate for the managerial role according to BBC Sport.
While no official contract has been signed yet, the negotiations are said to be in advanced stages.
In their search for a new manager, Burnley also considered high-profile candidates such as former Manchester United forward Ruud van Nistelrooy and ex-England midfielder Frank Lampard.
The decision to lean towards Parker highlights Burnley’s preference for a manager with a proven track record in achieving Championship promotions.
The club’s managerial seat has been vacant since May, when Vincent Kompany departed to take the helm at Bayern Munich.
Craig Bellamy, who was named acting head coach following Kompany’s exit, is expected to remain with the club in a coaching role if Parker’s appointment goes through.
He would be joined by assistant Henrik Jensen, coach Mike Jackson, and set-piece coach Eliot Tybebo, ensuring continuity and a solid support team for Parker.
In addition to the managerial changes, Burnley are on the verge of securing the signing of Brazilian left-back Lucas Pires from Santos.
The 23-year-old defender, who spent last season on loan at Cadiz in La Liga, making 30 appearances, is anticipated to finalize his move to Burnley within the week. Pires’ addition is expected to bolster Burnley’s defensive options as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Scott Parker’s prospective arrival at Burnley heralds a new chapter for the club, combining experienced coaching with strategic player acquisitions to strive for a return to Premier League glory.