James Tarkowski seals free transfer move to Everton | OneFootball

Everton have announced the arrival of central defender James Tarkowski.

The 29-year-old makes the move to Goodison Park on a free transfer after his contract at Burnley expired in June.

It is reported that the Toffees beat off interest from Newcastle United and Leicester City for Tarkowski’s services, with the 29-year-old penning a four-year deal on Merseyside.

“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,” Tarkowski told the club’s official website.

“Speaking to the manager, it was very important to see what he wants from his players and his team, what he saw in me and why he wanted to sign me. I’m an ambitious person, I want to achieve, I want to win things and I’ve come here to be successful.”

Tarkowski spent six years at Turf Moor following his move from Brentford and made over 200 appearances for the club, helping the Clarets win promotion to the top flight on two occasions.

He also has two England international caps.