Burnley academy prospect puts pen to paper on first professional contract

Burnley have tied exciting academy prospect Corey King to his first ever professional contract.

The 18-year-old has put pen to paper on a one-year contract with the Clarets, who also hold a one-year option to extend.

The defender, who starred during Burnley’s run to the quarter finals of the FA Youth Cup, now moves up into Andy Farrell’s Under-21 side ahead of the new campaign.

“Having spent coming up to 10 years at this club, it’s a really proud moment for myself and my family,” King said of his deal.

“I had a rocky start to my scholarship with a big injury, but I hit the ground running after switching to centre-back in my second year.

“It was good to get a goal in the FA Youth Cup, too, and you don’t really realise how special the run was until you look back.

“Being able to play different positions has helped me, and I’m really excited for the new season.”

King, who joins forward Kian McMahon-Brown in penning a professional contract this summer, joined the club at Under-9 level.

Since then, he’s transitioned from a forward into a centre-back and last season was a mainstay in the Under-18s.

Academy manager Chris Casper added: “Corey has shown real adaptability this season, transitioning from attack to defence and playing consistently well.

“I look forward to seeing him continue his development with us in the coming season.”