Newcastle United are reportedly ready to test Burnley’s resolve again fpr James Tarkowski, the West Ham United target who has six months left on his contract.
According to The Sun, Newcastle United are back in the hunt for James Tarkowski as the transfer window draws closer to its end. The English defender, who has also been linked with West Ham United, has six months left on his Burnley deal, although the Clarets could be wary of selling to a relegation rival.
James Tarkowski was one of the first names on Newcastle United’s shortlist of central defenders to target in the ongoing transfer window. The Magpies were linked with him well before the turn of the year, although Burnley made it clear that they preferred not to sell him, especially to a relegation rival.
Tarkowski has less than six months left on his deal with Burnley, and the Clarets were initially expected to command a decent fee for the centre-back if an offer arrived. However, they were reportedly prepared to let him run down his contract if it meant they survived the relegation battle.
Meanwhile, Newcastle did not force the issue too much and started exploring the market for viable alternatives. They are currently hot on the trails of Diego Carlos, who might be closer to a move to the Premier League. However, the Magpies might still look to add another centre-back in this window.
With his immense experience in the Premier League, Tarkowski might prove to be the perfect candidate who knows the ins and outs of a relegation battle. Moreover, his price might also be attractive considering his contractual situation.
Other clubs such as West Ham United have shown a keen interest in the Englishman. The Hammers are also in the market for a centre-back due to Angelo Ogbonna’s season-ending injury, although the report claims they might no longer be considering Tarkowski. Newcastle will thus have a clear path in front of them, although their task is to convince Burnley more than the player.
It remains to be seen if Newcastle can put together a decent financial offer for Burnley to consider this month. However, if they accept the offer, the Clarets might find it hard to replace the Englishman with very little time remaining in the window.
Tarkowski could be the perfect signing for Newcastle, who are confident of snapping him up. The Magpies could boost their survival hopes and also weaken a rival in the process, just as they did with Chris Wood’s acquisition. For this reason alone, Burnley might be cautious and not sanction a sale.