Lyle Foster joins Houston Dynamo on loan from Burnley with permanent option

South Africa striker Lyle Foster has joined Major League Soccer club Houston Dynamo on loan from Burnley, with the American side holding an option to make the move permanent.

The 25-year-old forward leaves Burnley after four seasons with the English club, during which he made 89 league appearances and scored 11 goals.

Foster joined the Clarets in 2023 after spells with Orlando Pirates, Monaco, Brugge and Westerlo. He played a part in Burnley securing promotion to the English Premier League on two occasions.

However, his most recent campaign proved difficult. Burnley were relegated during the 2025-26 season, while Foster also struggled to make a significant impact for South Africa at the 2026 World Cup.

His move to Houston gives him the opportunity to continue his career in MLS, while the permanent-transfer clause provides the possibility of a longer-term stay with the club.

Houston Dynamo president Pat Onstad welcomed the arrival of the Bafana Bafana international and highlighted the qualities he believes Foster will bring to the team’s attack.

Onstad told the club’s website: “Lyle presents another powerful, mobile forward to our attacking group.

“He threatens the space behind the back line; links play well and brings the work rate and intensity that we demand without the ball.

“Lyle’s experience in the Premier League and on the international stage will strengthen our group, and we are excited to welcome him to Houston as we prepare for a strong finish to the season.”

Foster began his professional career with Orlando Pirates before moving to Europe, where he also represented Monaco, Brugge and Westerlo. His time at Burnley began in 2023 and brought him two campaigns in which the club secured its place in the Premier League.

Across his Burnley career, he scored 11 league goals in 89 appearances. The latest season, though, was overshadowed by the club’s relegation and by Foster’s limited influence for South Africa at the World Cup.

Houston Dynamo have now added him to their attacking group as they look to strengthen their squad for the remainder of the season. Onstad said Foster’s ability to threaten space behind opposing defences, contribute to build-up play and work hard without possession were central to the decision to sign him.

The loan agreement includes the option for Houston Dynamo to complete a permanent transfer, meaning Foster’s temporary move could develop into a full-time switch after his spell in Major League Soccer.