Burnley boss Sean Dyche hoping to finally get his man

Burnley are hoping to land their first outfield signing of the summer transfer window.
Dale StephensDale Stephens
Dale Stephens

And it looks like Sean Dyche could finally get his man, four years after having a series of offers turned down,

The Clarets have made an initial bid for 31-year-old Brighton midfielder Dale Stephens, and it is believed to be a case of when, rather than if, the deal goes through.

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The Bolton-born former Bury, Oldham and Charlton man is out of contract at the end of the season, and was not on the bench for the 3-0 win at Newcastle on Sunday, having picked up a slight knock while captaining the side in their 4-0 Carabao Cup win against Portsmouth on Thursday.

Back in 2016, after Burnley won the Championship title, pipping Brighton to promotion, the Clarets had six bids for Stephens turned down, including an offer in excess of £8m on deadline day.

Stephens also had a transfer request rejected, and said, in a note posted on Twitter after the transfer window had closed, addressed to ‘Brighton fans’: “This isn’t an apology but an explanation that you deserve.

“Yes I did submit a transfer request earlier today, which I was reluctant to do.

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“The football club have been aware for 5 weeks I wanted to leave to fulfill my and every footballers ambitions of playing in the Premier League.

“I’m 27 years old and recognised this could be my final opportunity to do so, which is why I feel disappointed my chance was taken away.

“I prefer to give you honesty rather than shy away from my actions now the window is closed.

“I respect and understand your frustration as this is your football club. I have 10 months remaining and will honour my contract.”