Everton close to signing Burnley’s James Tarkowski after terms agreed

Everton are closing in on the free signing of James Tarkowski after agreeing personal terms with the Burnley defender.

The 29-year-old is out of contract at Turf Moor at the end of the month and has been strongly linked with a move to Goodison Park since Burnley’s relegation from the Premier League.

Frank Lampard, the Everton manager, is keen to strengthen in central defence after injuries to Yerry Mina and Ben Godfrey denied him a settled partnership during his first few months in charge.

Aston Villa and Fulham have also been linked with Tarkowski, although Steven Gerrard’s side have subsequently signed Diego Carlos from Sevilla. Tarkowski has verbally agreed personal terms with Everton and is due to undergo a medical before the deal is confirmed.

Leeds have confirmed the signing of the Denmark defender Rasmus Kristensen from Red Bull Salzburg on a five-year contract. Jesse Marsch, who coached the right-back at Salzburg and is now the manager at Elland Road, described the 24-year-old as “a very good Champions League full-back” and said: “I am totally convinced that he will continue to grow into a great Premier League full-back.”

Newcastle have paid £15m to buy Matt Targett after his successful loan from Aston Villa. “It was an easy decision to make,” said the left-back, who has signed a four-year contract.