Lyle Foster. (Photo by Isosport/MB Media/Getty Images)
Burnley have announced the signing of South African international Lyle Foster from Belgium’s KVC Westerlo for an undisclosed price.
The fee is believed to be around €7m, which could rise to €10m depending on add-ons, which would make Foster the most expensive player in South African history.
The 22-year-old forward signed a four-and-a-half-year contract at Turf Moor, becoming the club’s third signing in the January transfer window.
“I am very happy to be here,” he told the club’s official website.
“I am blessed and grateful for the opportunity, and I can’t wait to get started.
“From the moment I heard Burnley were interested, my heart and head were set on the club. I’m very happy to be here now. It’s a dream for me.”
Foster has had a great campaign in the Belgian Pro League this season, having scored eight goals and amassed four assists.
He began his career with the Orlando Pirates, rising through the academy ranks. Thereafter, he earned a transfer to French Ligue 1 side Monaco in 2019.
He then joined Belgian side Cercle Brugge on a season-long loan from Monaco, which was cut short in March 2020 due to the Covid pandemic.
He then switched to Portuguese club Vitória Guimarães SC B SC in August of that year before joining Westerlo on loan for the 2021-22 campaign, for whom he signed on a permanent deal in the summer.
Burnely is next in FA Cup action when they travel to Ipswitch Town on Saturday.
Give a warm welcome to South African international Lyle Foster from Belgian side KVC Westerlo for an undisclosed fee. The 22-year-old striker has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract at Turf Moor and becomes the Clarets. ‘third signing of the January transfer window?
— Burnley FC (@BurnleyOfficial) January 25, 2023
