Leeds United’s title rivals take immediate transfer action by signing Norwich City striker

One of Leeds United’s title rivals have bolstered their forward line in the January transfer window. Veteran striker Ashley Barnes has rejoined Burnley from Norwich City on a deal until the end of the season. The 35-year-old, who previously played for the Clarets between 2014 and 2023, is eligible to play in Saturday’s East Lancashire derby against Blackburn Rovers. “It feels fantastic to be back home! Burnley has been a massive part of my life for over a decade, and I can’t wait to pull on the Claret shirt again,” Barnes told the club’s website.

Barnes plundered 67 goals in 293 appearances in his previous spell at Turf Moor, helping Burnley win promotion from the second tier of English football three times. Barnes departed the club after winning the title as part of Vincent Kompany’s side in 2023 and headed to Norwich. He notched seven goals in 49 outings and was part of the Canaries team beaten by United in the Championship play-off semi-finals last year.

“Ashley leaves with our very best wishes, and we thank him for his contributions over the last 18 months,” Canaries sporting director Ben Knapper said. Burnley are currently second in the standings, trailing the table-topping Whites by three points. The two clubs go head-to-head on Monday, January 27 in what could be a pivotal meeting in the race for promotion.Despite being outplayed for long periods at Elland Road in the reverse fixture back in September, Scott Parker’s men claimed maximum points after a superb solo goal from Luca Koleosho.

Read more on sportupdates.co.uk