Reliable journalist: Everton now favourites to sign 'outstanding' leader for Frank - report

Everton are reportedly now favourites to sign James Tarkowski on a free transfer this summer.

Tarkowski is out of contract this summer, meaning that he has the option to leave Burnley as a free agent.

Following the Clarets’ relegation from the Premier League down to the Championship, it is now highly unlikely that he will stay, giving other clubs a chance to pounce on an experienced top-flight defender for no initial transfer cost.

Writing in his latest piece for The Daily Telegraph, reliable journalist Jason Burt has revealed that the Goodison Park faithful have now moved ahead in the race to sign Tarkowski.

Aston Villa had shown an interest in him, but a deal is now unlikely to happen, given that they have signed Sevilla central defender Diego Carlos.

It is a no-brainer for the Merseyside club to pick up Tarkowski on a free.

Once described as an ‘outstanding‘ player by his former manager Sean Dyche, and a ‘real leader‘ at the back by former top-flight striker Noel Whelan, the 29-year-old would certainly help with their defensive issues, having conceded no fewer than 66 times in the division this season, the fifth-most of any side.

Nonetheless, he has that added Premier League experience and know-how that should ensure that he settles in very quickly at the Toffees.

In other news, find out what ‘big’ Blues player ‘boost’ has now emerged here!

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