According to Fabrizio Romano, Burnley have signed Vitinho from Cercle Brugge after Vincent Kompany made him a “priority” target.
What’s the story?
Well, Romano feels this is a “surprising” move for the Clarets, and it has certainly come out of the blue.
Burnley did well to keep this one quiet, as Vitinho has already completed his medical, while the Brazilian has also agreed personal terms on a contract until June 2026.
The reliable Italian journalist does not state how much Burnley are paying for the right-back, but seeing as he has already entered the final 12 months of his contract, we doubt the fee is a big one.
Romano adds that Burnley are now set to officially announce the deal.
Vitinho’s move to England comes after he made 31 appearances in Belgium’s Jupiler Pro League last season, scoring one goal while also providing one assist.
You may not know much about the South American, but according to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, the defender is a “really good” player.
The news comes at a good time for Burnley supporters, as it eases the pain of losing Dwight McNeil to Everton.
As things stand, the deal is not official, although Everton have had a £20m bid accepted, and the winger is keen to join the Toffees according to 90min.
Vitinho could shine for Burnley
If the 23-year-old can settle quickly in England, he could be a significant player for the Clarets.
What encourages us about this deal – aside from Tavolieri’s comments – is the fact that Vitinho was a priority target for Kompany, a man who knows the Jupiler Pro League very well indeed.
The 36-year-old was born in Belgium, rose through the ranks at Anderlecht, and also managed the Belgian side as recently as this year, so he knows that market very well indeed.
Therefore, if any Burnley fans are sceptical about this deal, they shouldn’t be.
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