Burnley defender Charlie Taylor has moved to Southampton on a free transfer, ending his seven-year spell at Turf Moor.
Taylor moved to East Lancashire from Leeds in 2017 and played over 150 times in the Premier League.
He was part of the squad that finished seventh under Sean Dyche in 2018 and also played in the Europa League qualifiers the next season.
Taylor has signed a two-year contract at St Mary’s as Southampton aims to capitalize on their promotion from the Championship last season.
He expressed his enthusiasm to the club’s website, stating, “I’m really excited. It just feels like the right fit. Everyone I spoke to about the club has only had great things to say. I’m so excited and can’t wait to get started. We spoke briefly on the phone to begin with and straight away Russell Martin really impressed me. The way he talks about football is the way I like to see it too, so him being the manager was a massive pulling point.”
Reflecting on his decision to join Southampton, Taylor added, “I feel as though it was too good an opportunity to turn down. Ever since I’ve come down here, I’ve just had a good feeling, surrounded by good people. It’s a huge club, back in the Premier League now, and it will be a good experience for me.”
Last season, Taylor played 30 matches as Burnley faced relegation from the Premier League, scoring in a 2-1 defeat against Bournemouth last October.
Manager Russell Martin praised Taylor’s addition, noting, “Charlie brings a wealth of Premier League experience to the side which will be vital for us. He’s a great character who will fit into what we’re building here. Technically, he’s a gifted passer of the ball and has versatility. I’m delighted we’ve brought him in. It’s going to take everyone again next season so it’s important we have competition for places across the board.”
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