Burnley is actively engaged in discussions to hire Nicky Hayen, the head coach of Genk, for their vacant managerial position.
At 45 years old, Hayen has emerged as Burnley’s preferred candidate following the mutual departure of Scott Parker in April.
Sources inform BBC Sport that negotiations with Genk regarding Hayen’s appointment are ongoing, but a deal has yet to be finalized.
Before his tenure at Genk, Hayen managed Haverfordwest County in Wales from 2021 to 2022 and had a stint with Club Brugge, which ended in December 2025 after his dismissal.
He took over at Genk shortly after, leading the team to a seventh-place finish, although they missed out on European competition.
Burnley previously considered appointing Craig Bellamy, the men’s national team head coach for the Football Association of Wales, but those discussions fell through due to disagreements on backroom staff arrangements.
Additionally, former Wolves manager Rob Edwards is reported to have declined an offer from Burnley to succeed Parker.
As preparations for the new season, Burnley players are scheduled to travel to the United States for pre-season training, with friendly matches set against FC Cincinnati, Columbus Crew, and Real Salt Lake.
Last season, Burnley finished 19th in the Premier League, resulting in immediate relegation back to the Championship.