Everton are in the race to sign James Tarkowski from Burnley who will be available on a free transfer in the summer window.
According to iNews, Everton are interested in signing James Tarkowski. The Toffees are reportedly looking to make an offer to the defender. The Burnley man will be available on a free transfer as he runs down his current contract.
Everton have been in real trouble of late with their dreadful form dragging them near the relegation zone. Much was spoken about the club’s ambition at the start of the season when they delivered consistent results. However, their form fell dramatically, which caused turmoil within the team.
Last weekend’s surprise win over Manchester United took some pressure off their shoulders and gave manager Frank Lampard some breathing room. However, the season is yet to conclude and the Toffees have plenty of difficult games to manoeuvre before ascertaining their safety in the top-flight.
If they survive, the board are planning to bring in crucial signings to strengthen the squad, particularly the defence. The central defensive areas have been problematic this season, lacking players with leadership qualities who could marshall the backline.
Everton are linked with a few names to bolster their defensive ranks. Wolves’ Conor Coady has been mentioned as a target, but the Midlands club are unlikely to sell their captain, and the Toffees may have to look elsewhere.
James Tarkowski is the latest name to emerge on their list, as the Toffees could look to take advantage of his contract situation at Burnley. The centre-back is running down his current deal and is likely to move on a free transfer, with the Clarets in real danger of relegation this season.
Tarkowski has made 212 appearances for the club since signing from Brentford in 2016. He has become the bedrock of the Clarets’ defence, having manoeuvred through several relegation dog fights. With Burnley sacking Dyche on Friday, the last remaining hope of keeping the defender has disappeared, as he will now look forward to evaluating offers on the table.
Everton may do well by signing Tarkowski, as the 29-year-old defender offers leadership qualities and brings in tremendous experience on the pitch. The Toffees will also save millions in potential transfer fees, which will let them focus their spending on strengthening other areas of the pitch.
There are other suitors like Newcastle United, who have been interested in Tarkowski since January. However, they have also several other targets on their radars. As things stand, a move to Everton might be good for the player and the club, as they could mutually benefit from reaching an arrangement.
