Burnley Closing in on New Ashley Barnes Deal as Clarets Move to Retain Cult Hero

Burnley are closing in on a new deal for Ashley Barnes as they look to keep one of the club's biggest characters at Turf Moor, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

The Clarets are keen to retain the veteran striker despite his current contract expiring on June 30, and talks are understood to be progressing in the right direction.

At 36, Barnes may be one of the elder statesmen of the squad, but Burnley reckon he still has plenty left to offer, especially in the rough and tumble of the Championship.

He has famously won promotion to the Premier League on three occasions during a distinguished career at the club spanning 12 years.

Club chiefs believe his experience, leadership and know-how could prove invaluable as they look to mount another promotion challenge and secure a return to the Premier League.

Barnes featured just seven times last season, yet his standing at Turf Moor remains as high as ever.

The popular frontman is regarded as one of the club's biggest characters and most influential voices behind the scenes, with team-mates and staff alike holding him in huge respect.

RESPECTED

The former Brighton and Norwich hitman returned to Burnley in January 2025 and quickly slotted back into the dressing room, where he remains a hugely respected figure.

Barnes originally joined the Clarets from Brighton in January 2014 and went on to become one of the club's modern-day cult heroes during a memorable first spell in Lancashire.

The hard-nosed frontman has netted 54 times in 293 games for the Clarets, carving out a reputation as a Turf Moor cult hero along the way.

He also enjoyed seven seasons in the Premier League with Burnley, helping the club establish itself as a top-flight force under Sean Dyche and becoming a favourite with supporters for his combative style and never-say-die attitude.

Barnes is also expected to take on an even more prominent role this season, particularly with star striker Zian Flemming already attracting Premier League interest, which could see the veteran forward leaned on for his experience and presence up front.

INFLUENTIAL

And while Barnes is no longer a regular starter, the Clarets see him as an important figure both on and off the pitch as they continue to blend youth with experience.

Burnley are still searching for a new gaffer following Scott Parker's shock exit, with club chiefs determined to get the right man in place for their promotion charge.

Whoever lands the Turf Moor hotseat could soon have Barnes in his ranks after the veteran striker moved a step closer to extending his stay with the Lancashire club.

With his current deal entering its final days, Burnley are hopeful an agreement can be wrapped up soon, ensuring one of the club's most popular figures remains part of their bid to get back among English football's elite.