ITALIAN giants AC Milan are reportedly eyeing a move for Burnley’s Jeff Hendrick on a free transfer. The Irishman’s deal with the Premier League club is due to end at Turf Moor this summer and the Italians could take advantage of this according to Sky Sports.

Hendrick, capped 54 times by Ireland, was reportedly a target of Neil Lennon’s Celtic according to HITC. However, the former £10m man would likely demand Premier League wages and not necessarily demand a first team place at the Scottish Champions.

The Ireland midfielder has played 24 times this season, scoring twice and assisting for the Turf Moor side. This is unlikely to be a blow for Celtic, despite John Kennedy confirming that the club would be recruiting during the transfer window.

Hendrick is a physical presence that operates as a box to box player, bringing energy to the midfield. Burnley are hoping to keep the player according to the report with initial talks having been held between the parties. Although at 28 Hendrick might be eyeing a taste of silverware out with the Premier League.

Elsewhere, Jonny Hayes seemed to confirm last night in a heartfelt farewell on Instagram that he would be leaving the club. Hayes has been a consistent and loyal servant to the club throughout his three years at the club.