James Tarkowski in demand as Everton, Leicester join Newcastle in defender race

Everton and Leicester City are reportedly keen to sign defender James Tarkowski after Burnley suffered relegation to the Championship.

The Clarets needed to match Leeds United’s result on the final day of the season but lost 2-1 to Newcastle United. And with the Whites downing Brentford 2-1, the Turf Moor outfit’s six-year stint in the Premier League came to an end. It is inevitable that a number of the club’s stars will leave in the off-season, with Tarkowski among them.

The Manchester-born stopper has been one of the most consistent players for the club since joining in February 2016. Having established himself as a first-team star, he has made 175 league starts over the past five years.

A number of clubs have been linked with the man capped twice by England. The Toffees were mentioned in connection with the centre-back in April.

But links to Newcastle have been doing the rounds for some months. And West Ham have also been credited with an interest in the former Brentford man.

However, 90min are reporting that Everton and Leicester now lead the way for his signature. And, with Tarkowski out of contract this summer, it seems inevitable that he has kicked his last ball for the north-west outfit.

Having secured their Premier League future, the Toffees will look to strengthen in the off-season. Frank Lampard will want to ensure the Goodison Park faithful do not have to go through the turmoil of another relegation battle.

And it may well be that the former Chelsea chief opts for the experience of Tarkowski at the back.

Tarkowski with options to ponder

Set to become a free agent, Tarkowski can take the pick of the clubs looking to sign him this summer. Leicester endured a tough campaign by their recent high standards and ended up in eighth spot.

And there will be no European football at King Power Stadium in 2022-2023. However, a late rally showed that they still mean business and would be an attractive club for many players.

Whether Newcastle’s interest remains only time will tell. The Magpies would certainly have the finances to offer the former Oldham Athletic defender a decent package as a free agent.

Eddie Howe managed to turn things around at St James’ Park over the second half of the season.

And, with funds to attract top-name stars, it could be that Tyneside is an exciting place to play football in the coming years.

READ MORE: Everton flop Cenk Tosun shares emotional goodbye, with next move already mapped out