England Under-21 defender CJ Egan-Riley has completed a move to Olympique de Marseille on a free transfer after turning down a significant long-term contract offer from Burnley, the French club announced on Saturday. The 22-year-old, who played a pivotal role in Burnley’s promotion to the Premier League last season, has signed a four-year deal with Marseille and will join the squad after completing his international duties at the European Under-21 Championship in Slovakia.
Egan-Riley, a product of Manchester City’s academy, emerged as a key figure in Burnley’s record-breaking Championship campaign during the 2024/25 season. Partnering with Maxime Esteve, he helped the Clarets concede just 16 goals in 46 league matches, securing 26 clean sheets in 41 appearances. His performances earned him a call-up to the England Under-21 squad in March and attracted interest from several European clubs, including West Ham United, Crystal Palace, AC Milan, Porto, and RC Strasbourg.
Despite Burnley’s efforts to secure his future with a lucrative contract, Egan-Riley opted to pursue an opportunity in France. Burnley confirmed his departure on June 11, stating that the defender had formally rejected their offer. “Despite the club’s commitment to securing CJ’s long-term future and the substantial investment offered, CJ has made the decision to pursue an opportunity in France,” read a club statement. The Clarets expressed gratitude for his contributions, particularly his role in their promotion-winning defense, and wished him well in his next chapter.
Marseille, managed by Roberto De Zerbi, moved decisively to secure Egan-Riley’s signature, outmaneuvering Strasbourg, who had been considered favorites earlier in the transfer window. Reports suggest Marseille offered a more lucrative deal, prompting Egan-Riley to choose the Ligue 1 runners-up over other suitors. West Ham made a late attempt to hijack the transfer with a renewed offer, but the defender remained committed to Marseille, where he will join former Premier League stars Mason Greenwood and Jonathan Rowe.
The move marks a significant step in Egan-Riley’s career as he transitions from the English Championship to a club competing in the UEFA Champions League. Marseille, who finished second in Ligue 1 last season, view the versatile defender as a potential replacement for Leonardo Balerdi and a long-term asset in their backline. Egan-Riley completed his medical with Marseille in recent days while on international duty, with the club confirming the signing on June 14.