'Will be in the race' - BBC man backs Everton to sign 'outstanding' leader; seen him up close

Former Premier League goalkeeper Paul Robinson has reacted to reported interest from Everton in Burnley defender James Tarkowski. 

A recent report from i News claimed that the Toffees had joined top-flight rivals West Ham and Newcastle United in their desire to sign the Clarets centre-back.

The 29-year-old is set to become a free agent this summer (Transfermarkt), fuelling prominent interest from multiple suitors.

After a ‘source’ at Goodison Park told Football Insider that Frank Lampard would be keen on bringing in Tarkowski, one of the defender’s former team-mates has taken a closer look at the potential Everton swoop…

Speaking to Football Insider, Robinson – who also works as a pundit for BBC Radio 5 Live – explained whether or not the Burnley centre-back would improve Lampard’s ranks.

The 42-year-old said: “Tarky is a top player. Everton will be in the race to sign him.

“I played with him at Burnley and he is a great professional. He has the right mentality on and off the field. He is a very good player.

“Is he a top-level centre-half? Probably not. But he will certainly push on from Burnley into a side in the top half of the league. He is strong, good in the air and a lot better with his feet than people give him credit for.

“Looking at Everton’s current options he would be an improvement on what they’ve got. His leadership qualities would also help them in the dressing room.”

Having conceded 56 goals in the Premier League this season – more than 12 other teams – there can be little doubting that improved defensive options are required for the Everton squad. This is particularly true considering Yerry Mina’s constant battle with injury, after the Colombian powerhouse was forced off once again against Leicester over