Burnley break transfer record to sign Jeff Hendrick from Derby

31 August 2016 15:23

Burnley have broken their transfer record for the second time in a fortnight to sign Derby midfielder Jeff Hendrick.

The 24-year-old has signed a three-year deal for a fee reported to be in the region of £10million.

That is more than the £8million they paid Anderlecht to bring Belgium midfielder Steven Defour to Turf Moor two weeks ago.

"The Premier League was a big draw for me and it's where I aspire to be after the summer I've had," said the Republic of Ireland international.

"Burnley did so well last year going unbeaten for five months and how much they wanted me this summer was a real positive for me.

"I know there have been a number of bids and I was sitting there waiting for one to be accepted.

"I would have preferred it to happen earlier to get to know your team-mates and coaching staff a bit more but I am just thankful it's done now and I can go away with Ireland knowing my future is settled.

"It's a little weird signing for a club and not meeting everyone for more than a week, but I am really looking forwards to getting back and training with the lads."

Manager Sean Dyche made it a priority to strengthen his midfield and he has successfully done that.

"After a protracted deal, we have got a main target of ours and we welcome Jeff to the club and hope he does well," said the Clarets boss.

"He is someone who can add to our strength in midfield and he's a player who is still learning and still developing and is someone who we think we can work for us now and in the future."

Source: PA