Burnley have ‘already started talks’ with Schalke over forward Darko Churlinov after his struggles with Vincent Kompany’s side this season.
That’s according to WAZ, who cover the player today after claims Schalke were looking at a deal for the 22-year-old in the summer.
That report explained that Burnley were considering letting Churlinov leave Turf Moor on loan in the summer after just a year at the club, with the player having struggled this season after a summer move from VfB Stuttgart.
He’s managed just six appearances in the Championship since then and featured in just 4% of the available minutes, with most of his playing time coming in the cup competitions.
They’re not currently sure what division they’ll be playing in next season but they’re already thinking about next season’s squad and have ‘taken a closer look’ at Churlinov.
According to their information, Schalke and Burnley ‘have already started talks’ about a possible deal, with the most likely outcome being a loan deal.
Schalke’s belief is that Churlinov would fit in well to Thomas Reis’ side and get back to his best as he felt ‘very comfortable’ during his time in Gelsenkirchen. He also gets on ‘particularly well’ with attacking midfielder Rodrigo Zalazar, who would be ‘particularly happy’ to see him return.
He would also be welcomed back by the fanbase, who were keen to see him make the switch but saw those dashed by the finances at the club. He instead made a move to Burnley.
Things have not gone ‘according to plan’ at Turf Moor, though, and Schalke are ready to offer him the regular playing time that it seems Kompany cannot.