By Zim Sport Live Writer
England-born Zimbabwean youngster Vernon Masara says he is looking forward to testing himself in senior football after leaving Burnley to join League One side Peterborough United on a permanent deal.
The 19-year-old forward has signed a long-term contract with Peterborough for an undisclosed fee and will wear the number 17 shirt.
Masara, who can play anywhere across the frontline, came through Burnley’s academy from pre-academy level and now begins a new chapter as he looks to establish himself in the professional game.
The Zimbabwean-born attacker believes the move offers him an opportunity to develop in a senior environment.
“I feel this is a great opportunity for me to come into a men’s environment at a club that is really good at helping young players,” Masara said.
He revealed that his father encouraged him to take the opportunity when Peterborough’s interest emerged.
“I speak to my Dad about everything and when I called him to talk about the interest from Peterborough, he said ‘let’s do it’.”
Masara made his mark in Burnley’s academy at an early age, becoming a key member of the Under-21 side while still 16 and scoring a hat-trick against Crewe Alexandra.
He scored 21 goals across Burnley’s age groups during the 2023-24 season, earning him the club’s Academy Player of the Year award.
He later gained his first experience away from Burnley when he joined FC United of Manchester on loan in 2025.
Although he never made a senior appearance for Burnley, Masara was included in the first-team squad for a Carabao Cup tie against Wolverhampton Wanderers two years ago.
The versatile attacker says he intends to approach the next stage of his career without putting unnecessary pressure on himself.
“I don’t like to put too much pressure on myself, I like to play with freedom and try and express what I can do,” he said.
“I can play anywhere across the front, I like to get the ball and try and make things happen.”
Peterborough manager Luke Williams believes Masara’s experience around Burnley’s first team can help him make the transition to senior football.
“Vernon is a player that has been in and around the first team at his previous club for a number of years and we are pleased that he has decided to join us for his next chapter,” Williams said.
“He is someone that can play across the attacking positions, so will add to our options in that department.”
Masara is now focused on settling into his new surroundings and making an impression during his first weeks with Peterborough.
“I am really excited to get started, it is a good time to come into the group, it is a big week, now it is about getting to know everyone and showing what I can do on the training ground.”
The move gives Masara a fresh opportunity to turn his impressive academy record into regular senior football as he begins his career at Peterborough.
