Three likely destinations for James Tarkowski amid Everton closing in

Many Premier League sides are set to tussle it out for James Tarkowski’s signature.

James Tarkowski will leave Turf Moor at the end of his contract, having joined them way back in 2016 from Brentford. The English centre back has established himself as one of the toughest defenders in the Premier League, and it is the right time for him to seek a new challenge after Burnley got relegated.

There are many Premier League clubs after this no-nonsense CB whose contract runs down at the end of June and would be an absolute steal for whomever he signs for.

His solid partnership with Ben Mee was one of the most iconic partnerships and played a crucial role in Burnley’s success in staying in England’s top flight, season after season. Well, that is until now, however.

Clubs like West Ham United, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United are lining up for his signature but according to reports, Everton is currently leading the race.

"Everton are confident of signing free agent James Tarkowski once he returns from holiday. Tarkowski has been eager to depart the Lancashire outfit for some time, choosing to run his contract down so he would be able to decide his own destiny."

The Toffees are looking for reinforcements at the back and Tarakowsi is at top of Lampard’s list. With many clubs interested, this race is expected to go down the wire.

Let’s take a look at three possible destinations for James Tarkowski this summer.

West Ham United

The Hammers had a memorable 21/22 season, secured European football for next season and went on a dream run in the Europa League. They played some eye-catching football but struggled in the defensive phase.

Craig Dawson was the only stand-out player at the back and Issa Diop and Kurt Zouma failed to form a formidable partnership with him.

James Tarkowski is a proven personality in the Premier League and would slot into the Hammers’ lineup perfectly. He is tall, strong and physically agile which are the key attributes missing in the David Moyes’ team.

West Ham is in the race for signing James Tarakowsi but the only issue standing in the way of a possible switch to the East London club is his high contract demands. The Hammers could abort from signing him and turn their attention elsewhere.

Newcastle United

Newcastle United enjoyed a great spell in the second half of the season under Eddie Howe. They not only succeeded in avoiding relegation but managed to climb up to the 11th spot at the end of the campaign.

Now the Magpies are looking to build on last season’s ending and a centre-back is on their priority list going into the summer transfer window.

Newcastle United are exploring the opportunity to sign Tarakowsi after reportedly falling behind in the race to sign Sven Botman from LOSC Lille.

The Englishman is highly rated by Eddie Howe and after the success of Kieran Trippier, he is expected to prefer an experienced Premier League campaigner over other targets.

Everton Leading the Race for James Tarkowski

Everton had an embarrassing 2021/22 campaign where they survived relegation by the skin of their teeth. The Toffees even sacked Rafa Benitez mid-season due to poor performances and appointed Frank Lampard who also failed to revive them.

They are looking for some serious reinforcements in every department, especially in defence which has been heavily shaky in recent seasons. The Merseyside club doesn’t have any leader at the back and Lampard desperately needs a strong contender to lead the defence.

Tarkowski ticks all boxes and suits Lampard’s side; it is being reported that Everton is currently leading the race and might just lure him to Goodison Park and beat their competitors to his signature.

They have reportedly already offered him a contract and both parties are optimistic about sealing the deal. If he does join the Merseyside outfit, he will team up with his old centre-back partner, Michael Keane.

They enjoyed a season together at Turf Moor before Keane eventually left to go and play for Everton.