Burnley have taken their interest in Harry Wilson to the next level after submitting an official bid of £12million for his services.
However, the Clarets will need to revise their offer if they want to win over Michael Edwards, who reportedly knocked back the bid. The Liverpool sporting director is looking for at least £3million more in order to let the Wales international leave the club this transfer window (via Football Insider).
It’s unclear whether Burnley will revisit with an improved amount, but time is running out and a player like Wilson could help transform Sean Dyche’s side.
How would Harry Wilson benefit Burnley?
After the Clarets finished in a respectable 10th place last season, they will be eyeing up their chance to close the gap on the top six. With 54 points at the end of the term, they were just five points behind Spurs in sixth place, who managed to claw back a solid finish despite their sticky start.
Top scorer Chris Wood would benefit from a playmaker like Wilson operating either in the engine room or on the wing. The 23-year-old has enjoyed three loan spells away from Liverpool and has made himself known as a superb free-kick taker with the ability to net from long-range.
This is a trait that could also transform Burnley’s attack, for matches where they are unable to break down the opposition’s defence.
Harry Wilson stats
Despite only breaking into Liverpool’s first team twice in his career, Wilson has impressed in the youth leagues and also during his loan stints. In 60 appearances for the Reds’ reserve side, the Welshman boasts a superb 32 goals and 14 assists. His first short-term move away was with Hull, where he racked up seven goals and four assists in 14 matches (via Transfermarkt).
His eagle-eyed vision means he has scored eight goals through a direct free-kick, winning the match on one occasion with his frightening accuracy.
Two of those free-kicks came during his time on loan with Bournemouth, which seriously impressed Eddie Howe.
In an interview with the Bournemouth Echo last November, the Cherries boss hailed Wilson as being “hugely impressive” after he notched a total of seven goals and two assists.
If Burnley are serious about bringing the playmaker to Turf Moor, they must rally their funds as fellow Premier League sides Southampton, Leeds and Newcastle are also very interested in his services.
In other news, Michael Edwards shows Liverpool worth amid potential transfer profit