West Ham could 'enter fray' to sign James Tarkowski this summer

Journalist Ryan Taylor reckons that West Ham will be in the running to sign Burnley defender James Tarkowski this summer.

The Hammers are long-term admirers of the centre-back and were once again linked with him in the January window.

West Ham desperately needed to sign a central defender in January, with only three available for the rest of the season following Angelo Ogbonna’s long-term knee problem. Kurt Zouma did recently make his comeback from a hamstring problem sustained in December, but David Moyes needed another body.

West Ham’s interest in the £19.8m-rated defender dates back to the summer of 2020 when they saw three bids rejected by Sean Dyche’s side.

But the Hammers remain persistent on eventually signing the 28-year-old, although a deal in January appeared unlikely with Burnley demanding £30m for his services despite Tarkowski having just six months remaining on his Clarets contract.

According to 90min, West Ham want to sign the defender, who’s made 176 Premier League appearances for Burnley, in the summer when his deal at Turf Moor will have expired and he’ll be available for nothing.

Moyes’ side could face competition for his signature from Newcastle, who were heavily linked following their takeover, while a host of top-flight clubs will surely be monitoring his situation.

He told GIVEMESPORT: “All signs pointed towards him staying to the end of the season, then West Ham could enter the fray.”

Signing a striker will still be close to the top of Moyes’ priority list, but he should also be going all out to add Tarkowski to his squad.

Not only would they be able to get him for nothing, but he’s a reliable defender with plenty of experience at Premier League level.

Furthermore, he’s left-footed, and could