“To Me, I think...” — Gary Lineker Reacts to Man City Selling Kyle Walker to Burnley in £5m Deal
Gary Lineker believes Kyle Walker’s surprise move to Burnley is a smart decision for both club and player, calling the experienced right-back a "proper professional" who can lead by example in the dressing room.
Burnley have pulled off a surprise move by signing veteran right-back Kyle Walker from Manchester City in a deal worth £5 million.
The 35-year-old, widely regarded as one of the greatest right-backs in Premier League history, leaves behind a legendary eight-and-a-half-year stint at City. During that time, he won six Premier League titles and earned a reputation as one of England’s most dependable defenders.
Walker struggled for form during the 2024/25 season, and a loan spell at AC Milan midway through the campaign hinted that his time at the Etihad was drawing to a close. Criticism also followed his performance for England against Senegal, where he looked far from the elite full-back fans had come to know.
Now, he’s getting a fresh start with newly-promoted Burnley, a move that has been praised by pundits and fans alike.
Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, former England striker Gary Lineker said the transfer “makes a lot of sense,” adding:
> “Kyle Walker going there, a bit of old, an old head around the dressing room is always invaluable. He’s a proper professional — captain at Manchester City for a while. I think it’s a good one.”
Walker brings much-needed experience and leadership to a Burnley side looking to cement their place back in the top flight. And Lineker isn’t the only one who believes the former Spurs defender can have a big impact.
Many are comparing Walker’s move to other high-profile veterans who lifted newly-promoted teams — like Esteban Cambiasso with Leicester in 2014, Joao Moutinho with Wolves in 2018, and Willian with Fulham in 2022. Each of those players played key roles in helping their clubs survive — and even thrive — in the Premier League.
Burnley boss Scott Parker is known to be a big admirer of Walker, and their shared Spurs background could lead to a strong working relationship. Parker will be hoping Walker’s winning mentality and top-level experience can guide a young Burnley squad through the challenges of Premier League football.
The deal also includes a performance clause: City will only receive the full £5 million fee if Walker plays in at least 70% of Burnley’s league games and helps them stay in the Premier League, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.
