Burnley have signed 22 year-old defender, Luke McNally from Oxford United for an undisclosed transfer fee.
McNally began his playing career at Enfield Celtic in County Meath, Ireland, before joining Drogheda United’s Academy where he played at Under-17 level in 2015 & 16 seasons prior to moves to St Patrick’s Athletic.
At St Patrick’s Athletic, McNally initially played in their Youth squad before he was sent out on loan to Drogheda in 2019, where he impressed with nine goals in 34 appearances to earn a promotion to St Patrick’s senior squad in 2020 in which he netted one goal in 19 appearances.
McNally’s performances soon led to a move to Oxford United in January 2021 whilst he recovered from a hip injury, which limited him to unused substitute appearances towards the end of that season as he underwent a mini pre-season fitness rebuild programme.
McNally however was able to establish himself as a regular last season in Oxford’s first-team squad with four goals and one assist in 30 appearances, which has led Burnley to sign the 22 year-old after the release of veteran centre-backs, James Tarkowski and Ben Mee.
Speaking about his decision to step up to the Sky Bet Championship with the Clarets, McNally said: “It’s unreal to be here, I’m absolutely buzzing and so glad to have got the move done.
“It’s all happened so quick really, I just can’t wait to start now and I’m really excited.”
Burnley manager, Vincent Kompany who is preparing for his first season managing in England’s second-tier added: “Luke is a young player, he’s good on the ball, wins his challenges, and knows how to defend. We are delighted he is now a part of our squad.
“We are pleased to welcome him to our Club, he has shown all the qualities we were looking for in a central defender, and we are looking forward to working with Luke.”
McNally is Burnley’s second signing of this summer’s transfer window after Scott Twine joined from MK Dons on Sunday (26 June), with both players set for their competitive debuts away to Huddersfield in Burnley’s opening match of the season on Friday 29 July live on Sky Sports.
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