Everton eye £20 million defender on a free transfer to replace Michael Keane
One of the biggest headaches Everton had all season was the fragile defence which never had any stability. Many would agree that signing a more competent centre back is the need of the hour and the Toffees have one name on the table – James Tarkowski.
Throughout the season, because of injuries and inconsistent performances, Everton had to chop and change the centre backs almost every other game. When fit Yerry Mina was an unquestionable starter but his fitness always remained an area of concern. Mason Holgate and Michael Keane had periods where they flourished but they also had phases where they were below par.
Ben Godfrey also encountered injuries and found difficulties in getting back to fitness after COVID which stopped him into getting into any sort of rhythm. The Toffees need a centre back that can be reliable, robust and resilient in the rearguard.
The summer transfer window will be Lampard’s first proper transfer window where he gets ample time to assess the squad and make his decisions. He didn’t enjoy the same privilege in the winter transfer window when everything happened in haste.
Everton working to sign James Tarkowski
According to 90min, Everton have joined the race to sign Burnley centre back Tarkowski. The 29 year old is also chased by Leicester City and Newcastle United. The Merseysiders are working hard to secure Tarkowski’s signature but the race is intense as a number of clubs remain interested.
With Burnley’s relegation, the chances of Tarkowski have increased which has alerted a lot of clubs especially because they can sign the centre back on a free transfer since his contract runs down this summer. The report also mentions that Everton are looking to offload Keane and hence signing Tarkowski on a free transfer will be very smart business from Everton.
The Burnley defender is a defensive beast. He wins 4.96 aerials per 90 minutes, averages 6.22 clearances and 2.62 blocks per game. He features in the top 1 per cent of defenders for the aforementioned stats in Europe’s top five leagues. The 29 year old has a domineering presence in attack as well, as he is a big threat from set pieces, making 1.94 touches in the attacking box. (stats via FBref)
No wonder a host of clubs want his signature and if the Toffees manage to beat all the sides and sign Tarkowski on a Bosman deal, the fans couldn’t have asked for a better start to the summer transfer window.
Next. £27 million Everton outcast has offers from teams from five leagues. dark
Will Everton manage to sign James Tarkowski?