James Tarkowski has joined Everton on a free transfer from Burnley on a four-year contract.
Tarkowski has departed Burnley after scoring seven goals in 219 appearances across six-and-a-half years at Turf Moor, having opted not to renew his contract during last season which led to him being linked with Newcastle United.
Everton however swooped in to sign the 29 year-old on a free transfer after his contract at the Clarets expired on Thursday (30 June).
“I’m excited to have joined Everton. It’s a massive club. I’m really looking forward to the years ahead and I’m thankful for the opportunity that I’ve been given,” commented Tarkowski on his decision to move to Goodison Park.
Tarkowski went on to reveal that he had spoken to both manager – Frank Lampard and Director of Football – Kevin Thelwell, of whom both shared one common aim in their conversations which centred around the “ambition” of the club which suited the centre-back.
Explaining why “ambition” proved key in making him sign a four-year contract, Tarkowski added: “I’m an ambitious person, I want to achieve, I want to win things and I’ve come here to be successful.”
Tarkowski also acknowledged the unity of Everton supporters in their relegation fight last season which ultimately saw them survive along with Leeds at Burnley’s expense, as he said: “And then there are the Everton fans.
“The support they gave the team last season was incredible. You saw just how big the fanbase is. Despite a difficult season, Everton fans got behind their team more than ever.
“I think they are a massive factor about this club. Hopefully successful times are ahead and, with the talent we have in the squad, we can give the fans something they really enjoy.”
Tarkowski also hopes to add “character and leadership skills” to the Toffees like he did during his time at Burnley, which saw him top the Premier League’s charts for clearances and shot blockages last season.
The 29 year-old centre-back though iterated that he will first be a defender as he continued: “That part of my game is something I’ve really worked on the past few years to become the best defender possible.
“I want to bring that to the team, but I also feel like I’m a good football player. I can move the ball well, I can pass, I can attack the ball in the other box, so I feel like I’ve got myself in a good place to be successful at a club like Everton.”
Thelwell is “delighted” to secure Tarkowski as he proceeded to describe the twice-capped England international as “… consistently been one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders in recent years.”
On what he hopes will be achieved by adding Tarkowski to the playing squad, Thelwell went on to add: “Added to his playing attributes, his excellent leadership skills and experience will be a huge benefit, too.”
Leave a Reply