Chelsea and Arsenal are both lining up a January swoop of Burnley defender James Tarkowski. Some sources are claiming that the London clubs are out in the January transfer market looking to boost their defensive options and the 25-year-old is being shortlisted for a big move away from Lancashire.
The English centre-back has been in impressive form for the Clarets so far and has been one of the key members of the backline that has done so well defensively this season. Sean Dyche’s men have just conceded 17 goals in 20 league matches and it’s mostly to do with the defensive partnership between James Tarkowski and Ben Mee.
The possible departure of the English defender when the transfer window commences next month will be a concern for Burnley boss Sean Dyche. Let’s take a look at three alternative options who can replace the 25-year-old at the heart of the Clarets defence.
Andre Wisdom
The former Liverpool defender has put in some eye-catching displays in the Championship this season and has helped his team Derby County climb to 4th place in the league table. The Rams are currently well in contention for a playoff spot and it’s down to their defence which has conceded 21 goals in 24 league matches. They have the second-best defensive record in the division and it’s partly down to Wisdom’s great form.
At just 24, he still has his peak years ahead of him and Sean Dyche can offer him Premier League football once again if he manages to acquire his services in the near future.
Jonny Evans
The Baggies defender has taken his game to another level at the West Midlands following his departure from Manchester United. His services are in high demand with a whole host of Premier League clubs lining up for his signature. Burnley can offer him regular first-team football at Turf Moor if Tarkowski leaves which might be enough to convince him to join Sean Dyche’s revolution at Lancashire.
The Northern Ireland international can also boast a wealth of Premier League experience having made 224 appearances in the top tier of English football during his time with Manchester United, Sunderland and now, West Bromwich Albion.
David Abraham
The Argentine centre-back has been a rock at the back for Eintracht Frankfurt this season and has helped his team climb to 8th place in the Bundesliga standings. They have the second-best defensive record in the division and it’s partly down to Abraham’s excellent form.
The 31-year-old has made 17 appearances for Frankfurt in all competitions and has four clean sheets to his name. He might be a great fit for Sean Dyche’s side as they look to secure a top 7 finish in the Premier League.
