Everton: Lampard 'hoping to convince' 194-game star to move to Goodison Park

Everton boss Frank Lampard will be ‘hoping to convince’ James Tarkowski to head to Goodison Park ahead of his Burnley contract expiring, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Lampard was appointed as the Toffees’ manager in January and, having steered them to Premier League safety, it seems he is aiming to link-up with Tarkowski on Merseyside.

Tarkowski is set to become a free agent as his £70,000-per-week Burnley contract is due to run out in a matter of weeks.

Everton director of football Kevin Thelwell is understood to be a big admirer of Tarkowski and headed to Turf Moor on a scouting mission during the final weeks of the season.

Amid interest from Newcastle United and West Ham United, the Toffees have made a concrete move for the central defender by offering a £120,000-per-week deal.

However, Lampard’s charges are not the only Premier League outfit heading to the negotiating table as Aston Villa have lodged a similar proposal.

Fulham, fresh from winning the Championship title, are also mulling over whether to offer a lucrative contract after joining the race for Tarkowski’s signature.

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O’Rourke believes Tarkowski would be a shrewd signing for Everton, particularly with the 29-year-old being available without having to part with a transfer fee.

The journalist feels Lampard will attempt to beat the likes of Aston Villa to the centre-back’s services by showing ambition and discussing his targets on Merseyside.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “I think Tarkowski would be a good free agent for a number of Premier League clubs and the defence was a major issue for Everton this season, conceding far too many goals.

“I’m sure Frank Lampard would be hoping