Burnley complete club record signing of Jeff Hendrick

Republic of Ireland midfielder Jeff Hendrick has joined Burnley on a three-year-deal, with the Premier League side believed to have paid a club record €12.5 million to Derby County for the 24-year-old Dubliner.

The newly promoted side beat off competition from Hull City for Hendrick, who underwent a medical at Turf Moor on Wednesday morning.

“The Premier League was a big draw for me and it’s where I aspire to be after the summer I’ve had,” said Hendrick.

“Burnley did so well last year going unbeaten for five months and how much they wanted me this summer was a real positive for me.

“I know there have been a number of bids and I was sitting there waiting for one to be accepted.

“I would have preferred it to happen earlier to get to know your team-mates and coaching staff a bit more but I am just thankful it’s done now and I can go away with Ireland knowing my future is settled.

“It’s a little weird signing for a club and not meeting everyone for more than a week, but I am really looking forwards to getting back and training with the lads.”

Manager Sean Dyche made it a priority to strengthen his midfield and he has successfully done that.

“After a protracted deal, we have got a main target of ours and we welcome Jeff to the club and hope he does well,” said the Clarets boss.

“He is someone who can add to our strength in midfield and he’s a player who is still learning and still developing and is someone who we think we can work for us now and in the future.”

Hendrick was released from Republic of Ireland camp by Martin O’Neill and will miss the Oman game but return in time for the build-up to the opening World Cup qualifier against Serbia in Belgrade next Monday.

Hendrick was a star performer during Ireland’s Euro 2016 campaign – and in his five seasons playing with the Derby first team he has managed 27 goals in 214 games.

A second Republic of Ireland midfielder was on the move on deadline day with Eunan O’Kane moving from Bournemouth to Leeds United for an undisclosed fee.

The 26-year-old from Derry will move to Elland Road on an initial two-year deal , joining up with his team-mates after the international break.

There was also a move for Everton’s Aiden McGeady, who joined Championship side Preston North North End on a season-long loan.

McGeady had failed to make an impression on loan at Sheffield Wednesday last season but has the chance to resurrect his career at Deepdale this term.