Can We Eckersley Like Agree a Fee!

The Clarets signed Richard Eckersley from Manchester United in the summer but have yet to agree a fee for the defender.

Eckersley is aged 20 so the Bosman Ruling rules related to compensation applies.

If players are under 23, then the club losing out are entitled to compensation and if a fee can't be agreed between the clubs then the matter is decided at a tribunal.

Manchester United despite all their money would appear to be digging their heels in for a large amount of compo; one that the Clarets are not prepared to pay. It therefore looks like the only alternative will be to go to a tribunal, probably something both clubs, certainly Burnley would not have wanted to do.

It is pure speculation but the Clarets value of the player is beleived to be in the order of £250,000 whereas United are believed to have a figure nearer £2 million in mind.

Chief Executive, Paul Fletcher speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph about the situation said:

"There`s a reasonable chance it will go to a tribunal. We`re not a million miles apart on a fee, but it is a sizeable distance. It`s all down to people`s opinions.Right the way through, everything we do at the football club we back our manager. He sees him as one figure, and Manchester United see him as another, and we`ve valued him as a lot less than they have. We just hope that, if it does go to a tribunal, that we get a fair judgement."

Eckersley turned down the offer of a new contract at Manchester United instead preferring to get a better chance of first team action in the top flight with Burnley. He signed a four-year deal but has yet to breakthrough into the Clarets first team being seen as more of a long-term prospect.

He made his debut in the Carling Cup second round game at Hartlepool, a match we won 2-1 after coming from behind. It was not a good night for Eckersley though having been sent-off after picking up two yellows.

There is better news on David Edgar, who is in a similar situation after signing in ther close season from Newcastle. Fletcher indicated they are close to agreeing a fee with a tribunal not looking necessary.

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