Burnley in advanced talks with Genk boss Nicky Hayen

Burnley are in advanced talks with Genk boss Nicky Hayen as they step up their search for Scott Parker’s permanent successor ahead of their return to the Championship.

The Clarets are assessing their options as they look to avoid a rushed appointment ahead of the new season, with multiple reports claiming negotiations with Hayen have reached an advanced stage.

The 45-year-old guided Club Brugge to the Belgian Pro League title in 2023/24 before being sacked last December.

He was appointed by Genk later that month but could now be set for a move to Turf Moor after leading the Belgian club to a seventh-place finish, narrowly missing out on European qualification.

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Deal

Should the deal be completed, it would mark a return to British football for Hayen, who previously managed Welsh side Haverfordwest County.

Burnley failed in moves for Wales boss Craig Bellamy and former Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Rob Edwards.

The Clarets have also seen winger Jaidon Anthony complete a £15million move to Brentford, with the fee potentially rising to £17m in add-ons.

Burnley’s players are due to travel to the United States for their pre-season tour in the next few days, where they will face FC Cincinnati, Columbus Crew and Real Salt Lake before returning home.

Their Championship campaign begins with a home clash against fellow relegated side West Ham United as they bid for an immediate return to the Premier League.

The Clarets achieved that feat the last time they dropped into the second tier, finishing runners-up to Leeds United under Parker in the 2024/25 season.

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