Rik De Mil: transfer market still open after Burgess joins

KAA Gent has kicked off its pre‑season preparations for the upcoming campaign, fielding new signings centre‑back Christian Burgess and midfielder Lars Cooman under manager Rik De Mil, who praised the arrivals but warned that the club’s transfer activity is far from finished.

The initial training session featured Christian Burgess making his first appearance with the squad, while Lars Cooman also joined the drills. Coach Rik De Mil expressed readiness to start working with the new central defender.

Speaking to Het , De Mil explained that the prospect of signing Burgess seemed an interesting option once he heard the player might be attainable. He added that Burgess had proved himself at Union but that the club must assess the ambitions he would bring to Gent.

De Mil later recounted a conversation in which Burgess convinced him that his winner’s mentality remained intact. He described Burgess as an impressive leader whose qualities the team needed.

Last season did not unfold as planned, with the Buffalo’s experiencing difficult periods. Nevertheless, they secured European football by winning the play‑off against KRC Genk.

De Mil affirmed satisfaction with the early signings but stressed that Gent still requires additional quality, particularly in the central areas of the pitch. He concluded that the summer transfer window remains open for further acquisitions.