Burnley are already making moves for the future, and their top target to take the helm next season is none other than Craig Bellamy. The former Premier League forward is at the very top of the club's wishlist as they prepare for life back in the Championship.

Scott Parker guided the Clarets to promotion in his debut season at Turf Moor, but the step up to the Premier League proved too steep. With relegation now confirmed, the club is wasting no time in searching for a new leader to mount another charge from the second tier.

Bellamy is no stranger to Burnley. He previously served on Vincent Kompany's coaching staff and earned a reputation as a sharp, passionate tactician. According to BBC Sport's Sami Mokbel, the Wales national team manager is a "serious candidate" for the job.

There is a catch, though. Burnley would need to pay a £700,000 release fee to pry Bellamy away from his role with Wales. It also remains uncertain whether the fiery former striker is ready to return to club management.

If Bellamy isn't available, the Clarets have other options on their radar. Steven Gerrard is reportedly being considered, along with Cardiff City boss Brian Barry-Murphy.

Beyond that, the rumor mill has also linked Ole Gunnar Solskjær, Brentford's Thomas Frank, and former Chelsea coach Liam Rosenior to the vacancy. For now, though, all eyes are on Bellamy as Burnley look to build a squad and a sideline capable of bouncing straight back up.