Burnley boss Vincent Kompany clears way for ‘really talented’ Luke McNally to go on loan
Burnley's Luke McNally (left) crosses the ball despite the attentions of Bournemouth's Jaidon Anthony (right) during the FA Cup match at the Vitality Stadium earlier this month.
A number of Championship teams are competing to sign former St Patrick’s Athletic man Luke McNally on loan after Burnley confirmed that he would be allowed to leave the league leaders in this transfer window.
Burnley paid Oxford United £1m for McNally last summer as he was seen as a replacement for Nathan Collins, but the 23-year-old has been frustrated with the lack of game time, four appearances and just one start, though he did play a role as a sub in their FA Cup win over Premier League side Bournemouth.
Clarets manager Vincent Kompany has assured Meath native McNally that he does have a future there but admits he’s willing to allow him go on loan. "We were very transparent with Luke and I think the conversations were really constructive," said Kompany.
"He is a really talented player who already has a lot to offer. The best way for him to improve now is with game time so with the right type of move, if we have a feeling he can go somewhere and play, then it is something we will allow.
"Luke is ready to play and he showed it by helping us against Bournemouth. For him to make the next step would be a good thing to do."
League One side Sheffield Wednesday were very keen to bring in McNally to bolster their defence after Ireland U21 centre half Mark McGuinness was recalled by Cardiff City after am impressive loan spell.
However, local media have reported that Burnley are more likely to agree to a loan request from the batch of Championship teams who have inquired about McNally.
Enfield man McNally played first team football for St Patrick’s Athletic and Drogheda United before a move to Oxford in 2020.
