“An outstanding piece of business” – Fulham set to fight with Everton and Aston Villa over Burnley defender: The verdict | OneFootball

This article is part of Football League World’s ‘The Verdict‘ series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Fulham are set to battle Everton and Aston Villa for the signature of James Tarkowski.

According to the Daily Mail, the Burnley defender is on the radar of Marco Silva’s side as they prepare for life in the Premier League, having won the Championship title.

The 29-year old is out of contract this summer so would be available as a free agent.

Here, we ask our FLW writers their verdict on if he would be a good addition to the Cottagers’ side…

Marcus Ally

This would be an outstanding piece of business that would enormously enhance the Cottagers’ chances of staying up in the top-flight next season.

Tarkowski has been a pillar of consistency for a long time at Burnley, and their relegation was more down to a drop-off in their attacking play than a poor defensive record.

The 29-year-old is unfortunate to have only accumulated two England caps in his time with the Clarets and could have his pick of Premier League clubs this summer.

Fulham could offer him a starting berth, which should put them in a good position and they certainly need to address the centre back position, with not a lot of depth beneath Tim Ream and Tosin Adarabioyo at the club.

This is exactly the type of signing that Fulham should be making, and the kind of deal that they have not completed and paid the price for failing to do so, in years gone by.

Carla Devine

Tarkowski would be a very solid signing for the Premier League. Having played over 30 games in the top flight for the past five seasons, it’s clear that he would bring a wealth of experience to the Fulham side.

It feels like this is the type of player that was missing for Fulham during their last stint in the Premier League and although Tarkowski’s Burnley fell short and were relegated this season, in general he’s been part of a side that’s always managed to stay in the Premier League.

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Not only does he bring the experience, but the defender is a key leader especially in a Premier League team and would be sure to add both on and off the pitch.

Although Fulham have some centre-backs on the books, we’ve seen the likes of Tim Ream struggle at Premier League level before so having Tarkowski as a starting option would definitely strengthen the side.

Simmey Hannifin-Donaldson

James Tarkowski would be an excellent signing for Fulham this summer.

Marco Silva’s side need proven Premier League players among their ranks if they are to have the best chance at surviving next campaign and Tarkowski certainly fits that bill.

The 29-year-old has been a mainstay in the top flight for Burnley as they’ve established themselves in the Premier League, but following their relegation, it looks likely he will leave.

There will be plenty of clubs interested, and Burnley may want a decent fee, but providing those issues could be overcome, Tarkowski to Fulham would be a good acquisition for the Cottagers this summer.