8:48am Friday 10th July 2009
By Suzanne Geldard
BURNLEY haven’t given up hope of signing young Hamilton Academical defender Brian Easton, despite having a £300,000 offer rejected by the Scottish club.
The Clarets approached the Scottish Premier League side earlier this week in an effort to make the 21-year-old left back their fourth summer signing.
But chairman Ronnie MacDonald felt Burnley’s bid fell £200,000 short of their valuation.
However, I understand manager Owen Coyle still hopes to come to an agreement with the Accies for the Scotland Under 21 international, although it is likely to be in the form of add-ons rather than an improvement on the down payment.
Whether that will happen in time for tomorrow’s first pre-season friendly at Bradford City (kick-off 3pm) is unclear.
But Coyle is still keen on bringing Easton to Turf Moor, after unveiling a trio of new signings last week, including SPL export Steven Fletcher.
“We made an offer the other day, which was rejected, and that’s where we are at the moment,” said Coyle of his dealings with Hamilton for Easton.
“I’m not saying there might not be further dialogue, but I thought we made a fair offer.
“I understand where Hamilton are coming from because they have invested in their youth policy, plus they are reluctant to lose the lad anyway.
“He’s a young player with a big future, but everyone has their price.
“They’re within their rights to think of their own valuation, but ultimately we have to reach an agreement and we’ve not been able to do that yet.
“We might look to make it more appealing.”
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