Tottenham Hotspur Linked With A Swoop For Premier League Defender: A Good Option?

According to Fichajes, Tottenham are in the market for James Tarkowski. The Burnley star has been identified as an ideal target for the Lilywhites due to his contract that expires at the end of the season. Spurs won’t be able to pull off a Bosman deal for the centre-back but are hoping to sign him on a free transfer next summer, though they do face competition from Leicester City and Newcastle United.

James Tarkowski’s Success At Burnley

Since arriving from Brentford in 2016, James Tarkowski has become a pivotal member of the club’s incredible survival story in the Premier League. With 193 competitive appearances and consistent performances week in week out, he has been the pillar of the team that has managed to preserve its top-flight status despite witnessing many changes to the team.

A centre-back by trade, Tarkowski’s defensive partnership alongside Ben Mee, in particular, has played a key role in turning Burnley into one of the most rigid teams in the Premier League. During his time at Turf Moor, the Englishman has offered his leadership, commitment and aggression while his no-nonsense defensive style has gone hand in hand with Dyche’s philosophy.

Tarkowski initially started his journey at Burney as a young defender, who was hoping to make a breakthrough at the highest level. But after almost six years at the club, he is now one of the most experienced players in the current squad, with almost 170 Premier League appearances as well as two caps for the English national team.

A Good Option For Spurs?

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of James Tarkowski likely stems from the team’s lack of discipline at the back this season. The summer exit of Toby Alderweireld has left a massive void in the backline, especially from a leadership point of view.

Hugo Lloris has remained the leader, but Spurs have lacked an experienced outfield player at the back. Eric Dier is currently the most experienced centre-back in the team, but the former Sporting starlet is often maligned for his lack of responsibility and inconsistency.

To that end, the addition of Tarkowski could prove to be useful as Tottenham look to find a more formidable defensive partner for Cristian Romero. With years of experience in the Premier League, the Burnley star can certainly provide composure and leadership at the heart of the four-man backline.

Tarkowski’s defensive commitment and philosophy should also combine well with the more technical figure of Romero, thus adding a new dimension in the backline. And for a potential free transfer, the Englishman could indeed be a bargain for the Lilywhites.