Dodi Lukebakio was supposed to join Premier League newcomers Burnley in a £9.5 million deal on Monday but the sudden interest of Sevilla is complicating matters for Vincent Kompany’s side.
It seems a little reductive to suggest that – if Burnley had a forward of Erling Haaland’s quality – then Friday’s Premier League opener against Manchester City would have turned out rather differently.
There is only one Haaland, after all.
But still, many Burnley supporters were left wondering what might have been after the full-time whistle echoed around Turf Moor; the eventual 3-0 scoreline making City’s performance seem a lot more dominant than it actually was.
Burnley created – and squandered – their fair share of opportunities against the champions. More ruthlessness in the final third is a must if the Clarets are to turn their enticing, possession-based approach into results and points on the board.
And this is where Dodi Lukebakio comes in.
Burnley face competition in Dodi Lukebakio race
The jet-heeled Belgium international – once of Watford – scored 12 times as Hertha Berlin were relegated from the Bundesliga in 2022/23. His searing pace and composed finishing could conceivably be the difference between Burnley picking up an extra few results, or the odd valiant defeat.
“Dodi wants to take the next step in his career. That’s okay and understandable,” Hertha coach Pal Dardai says, confirming Lukebakio’s desire to depart this month.
“I wish Dodi the best of luck.”
According to the Berliner Kurier, Lukebakio was supposed to put pen to paper on a four-year deal with Burnley today. The Clarets are offering £9.5 million, rising to £11 million. That was, however, until long-time admirers Sevilla suddenly renewed their own interest, and made Kompany’s pursuit of his 25-year-old compatriot that little bit more difficult.
This is, to quote Belgian reporter Sacha Tavolieri, turning out to be a ‘very strange’ situation. Sevilla, he adds, are attempting to hi-jack the deal.
Although they may be forced to rely on outside investment if they hope to blow Burnley’s offer out of the water.
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