New signing Reece Burke says join Luton marks a “big moment” in his career as he aims to establish himself in the Championship, also admitting that manager Nathan Jones was key in the negotiations.
The 24-year-old had reportedly been interesting Millwall, Cardiff, Derby and Bristol City, but after turning down a new deal with Hull City he has become Town’s second summer signing after Fred Onyedinma joined last month from Wycombe.
Burke, who came up through the ranks at West Ham United, moved to the Tigers in 2018 and, though he suffered relegation last year, he played 37 times last term to help Hull to the League One title.
Talking about what tempted him to join the Hatters, despite other offers, the centre half said: “I’m delighted that it got sorted. I had a few calls with the manager before and the chairman who were telling me what it is like here and it appealed to me. I’m glad it is all sorted.
“I think everything he (Jones) said to me is what I’m looking for. It is a big moment for me in my career pushing on and what he said appealed to me and that is why I chose to come here.”
Burke, who describes himself as a “ball playing centre half” is delighted to be back in the second tier.
“The Championship is better football, you come against some good players and some good teams and it is where I want to be at the end of the day,” he told the club’s website.
“To do a season in League One, I wouldn’t say it was disappointing, but it was a bit frustrating at times because I want to push on and be playing in the Championship and hopefully push on from there as well.
“I know Luton did well last year, they are really going to push on this year as Nathan said, so I am looking forward to the challenge ahead.”
