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FC Charlotte were in talks with Ashley Westwood after Burnley boss Vincent Kompany admitted the midfielder is considering a “once in a lifetime” move to Major League Soccer.
FC Charlotte are hoping to complete the signing of Ashley Westwood from Burnley as they look to build an encouraging first season in Major League Soccer.
The Eastern Conference team wants to add the experienced midfielder to their roster and is in talks about a move. He was recently seen at the Charlotte Hornets’ NBA game against the Atlanta Hawks on December 16.
The 32-year-old has made 286 Premier League appearances for Aston Villa and Burnley, scoring 12 goals.
Ashley Westwood could travel to the United States with MLS FC Charlotte
Westwood has not played since April 2022 after suffering a major ankle injury at West Ham
Westwood has not played a game since April 2022 after breaking his ankle against West Ham, but returned to coaching at Burnley, who were relegated from the Premier League last season.
Burnley is now managed by former Manchester City defender Vincent Kompany, and sits first in the English Championship, England’s second tier of football.
Burnley beat Swansea 2-1 on Monday and Kompany admitted after the game that Westwood could leave after six years at the club, but did not say where he might go.
“He is someone who has done a lot for the club and he is someone I personally hold in high regard,” Kompany said.
“Since his injury, I’ve told him that if there’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at this stage of his career after a major injury, we’re going to go after it for him and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
Westwood has been a Burnley player for six years but now looks ready to leave the team.
Charlotte finished ninth in the Eastern Conference last season, its first in Major League Soccer.
“I can’t confirm anything yet, but it’s no secret that we’ll let you take a look at it.”
Charlotte finished ninth in the Eastern Conference in its first season in Major League Soccer with 42 points, six shy of last playoff spot.
Their 2023 Major League Soccer season begins on February 25 at home against the New England Revolution.