Burnley could need to balance Premier League and Europa League commitments so Mbia would have been a useful addition at Turf Moor.
Burnley Football Club are one step closer to bringing European football to Turf Moor.
Jack Cork’s stunning, extra-time goal against Istanbul Başakşehir on Thursday night was the only one in the tie – meaning The Clarets are just two admittedly daunting games against Olympiakos away from a place in the Europa League group-stage.
But if Burnley are to balance domestic and continental commitments, their relatively small squad looks a little suspect. Which perhaps explains why Sean Dyche reportedly wanted to bring in an experienced free agent in the shape of Stephane Mbia.
L’Equipe stated that the gravel-voiced gaffer wanted to add some depth to his midfield and was interested in signing the 32-year-old. Mbia, who has 67 caps for Cameroon, won the Europa League with Sevilla in 2015 and has English football experience too after a spell at Queens Park Rangers.
But Burnley’s hopes have now been dashed.
Sky Sports (live blog, 9.58am) reports that former Rennes and Marseille midfielder Mbia has now signed a one-year deal with Toulouse, moving back to France after two seasons in the Far East with Hebei China Fortune.
So there is a lot of pressure on Burnley’s existing players to remain fit and in form ahead of what could be a gruelling season.
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