Burnley’s 24-year-old defender Quilindschy Hartman has officially joined Espanyol on loan until the end of the season, capping months of behind-the-scenes talks. The Dutch international becomes the latest link in the growing partnership between Burnley and the La Liga club under shared owner Alan Pace.
What happened with the Hartman transfer?
Hartman’s move was no last-minute deal. He confirmed discussions with Espanyol’s sporting director Monchi and owner Alan Pace began in December, with the defender watching Espanyol in person back in January. “I spoke with Alan in December,” Hartman said. “I also spoke a lot with Monchi and met Manolo the other day. From the beginning they gave me the feeling that they wanted me.”
The defender admitted his focus shifted to Espanyol early. “The agreement started in January and from then on my mind was here,” he said. Burnley’s relegation to the Championship last season left him planning ahead, making this move a clear choice.
Why it matters for Burnley
This loan is the first concrete sign of Burnley’s deeper ties with Espanyol under Pace’s shared ownership. Hartman’s exit was planned months ago, with the defender admitting he was already weighing options after Burnley’s struggles. “Burnley were close to being relegated, so I was already thinking about what to do next season,” he explained.
Monchi, Espanyol’s sporting director, called Hartman the club’s top target to replace Carlos Romero. “He was the first name on the table,” Monchi said. “The negotiations were difficult because the other club is a strange club,” he joked, referencing Burnley’s shared ownership under Pace.
What comes next for Hartman?
The Dutch defender expects an adjustment period in La Liga. “The Premier League is very intense,” he said, arguing that La Liga’s style suits his game better. Hartman will need time to adapt to the language and tactical differences, but he’s confident Espanyol is the right place to keep growing after Burnley’s relegation.
As of 19 July 2026, Burnley sit 19th in the Premier League with 22 points from 38 games, 63 points behind leaders Arsenal, and face Bristol City at home on 5 September 2026.
