EX-CLARET Frank Casper says Burnley must make signing Jack Cork a priority, and then look to add at least another three new faces before the new season.

The former player, who twice managed the club, believes new boss Eddie Howe is facing a rebuilding project this summer, after falling short of the Championship play-offs towards the end of last season.

The Clarets were expected to secure a top six finish following relegation after just one season in the Premier League.

But after an indifferent start and mid-season change of manager they found it difficult to establish any momentum.

However, there were promising signs for the future in the final game of last season when Howe showed his intent to reduce the average age of the squad, with 24-year-old David Edgar starring in defence.

Chris McCann and Cork also formed a particularly impressive central midfield partnership, following McCann’s return from a serious knee injury.

And after it was reported that Chelsea would be prepared to accept £750,000 for Cork, Casper urged Burnley to act quickly.

“Jack Cork’s a class player.

“He would be a steal at £750,000. I’d snap their hands off,” said the 66-year-old, who is also hoping McCann will commit his immediate future to the club and sign a new contract.

“I’ve always liked Chris. They missed him very badly when he was out injured,” he continued.

“He’s a type of player who can force the game, he’s a strong player and a good runner, and he has a great left foot. He’s not bad in the air either.”

But after conceding 61 league goals last season, Casper is hoping for further reinforcements.

“I think they need a couple of defenders, and maybe a fullback, as well as a strong midfield player,” he said.

“They’ve got two striker coming back from injury – Martin Paterson and Charlie Austin –which will be a great bonus for them, but I think they’ve got at least four or five players to sign.”