Burnley's success in 2024-25 has been built on a strong defensive foundation, with the Clarets conceding just eight goals in their opening 21 games.
Under the guidance of new head coach Scott Parker, they have transformed their defensive record, reducing their average goals conceded from two per game in the Premier League to fewer than 0.5 per match in the Championship.
This is largely down to a settled backline, with the quartet of Lucas Pires, Maxime Esteve, CJ Egan Riley and Connor Roberts making up Parker's preferred back four.
While the latter has been brought back into the fold this season, following a loan at Leeds United, off-field transfers suggest that his time with the club could be coming to an end.
Oliver Sonne transfer could force Connor Roberts' exit from Burnley
Oliver Sonne, Silkeborg
Roberts joined Burnley from Swansea City in 2021 and has excelled in the Championship, but found the transition to the top flight more challenging.
Playing 43 games in their 2022-23 promotion campaign, the full-back provided 10 goal contributions and was sturdy in defence as the Clarets conceded just 35 goals.
However, with his contract expiring this summer and his previous shortcomings in the top division, the Burnley transfer chiefs have looked at adding a new face at right-back.
That man is Oliver Sonne, who, according to a report by Football Insider, is close to signing for the Clarets following talks with his parent club. Silkeborg IF.
The fee that they have almost agreed on is believed to be in the region of £2.5 million and his signature would bring an end to a saga that has taken place since the summer.
A 10-cap Peruvian international, it is clear that those at Burnley see him as a natural replacement for Roberts, who, at 29 years of age, seemingly doesn't represent the future at Turf Moor.
While Wales international Roberts may keep his place in the side post-January, it is difficult to see a way he will continue playing for Burnley in 2025-26, especially if they secure promotion to the Premier League.
This strategy of replacing out-of-contract players during the winter window could extend beyond Roberts, with regular starters Jay Rodriguez and Josh Brownhill also facing expiring deals in June.
A Connor Roberts return to Swansea City could manifest itself
Connor Roberts Swansea
Having spent much of his youth and adult life at Swansea City, it would be no surprise if Roberts signed for Luke Williams' side again upon his potential departure from Turf Moor.
Speaking to BBC Wales Sport's Feast of Football last month, the right-back said this about a potential return: "Hopefully one day I can go back to Swansea and I can be on their team for once.
"There will hopefully be good memories when I do go back and play for them again."
Roberts' certainty about another chapter makes it seem plausible that this summer will see him move back to the south coast of Wales.
After watching the interview, Swansea head coach Williams reinforced Roberts' remarks, praising the Burnley number 14 and acknowledging his qualities, though he admitted they will have to wait and see what the future holds.
In all likelihood, the arrival of Sonne does seem like it will force Roberts out of Lancashire. However, you can be sure he will gladly depart if his beloved Swansea City offer him a contract.
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The Clarets have struggled with scoring goals this season, and will be searching for a forward next month.