Report: Newcastle may have to pay over the odds to land 'outstanding' international, despite being only club interested

By Lee Connor

Newcastle are still hoping to bring in James Tarkowski this month from Burnley and as things stand, are the only club currently keen on taking the England man from Turf Moor. However, they could face a big fee.

Tarkowski is out of contract this summer and was one of the very first names mentioned when PIF took over Newcastle a few months back. But since then, the Magpies have looked at other targets as well, with a number of irons in the fire in terms of defensive recruits.

But according to The Sun, Newcastle could go back for Tarkowski now. However, they are likely to be met with a frosty reception from Burnley. The Clarets are said to be angry over the Chris Wood deal and will now demand Newcastle pay a healthy fee for Tarkowski. That could put the Mags in a sticky situation.

The club could choose to hold out until the summer and land Tarkowski for nothing. However, other clubs could step in during that period. Further, Eddie Howe needs new players now to help in the club’s relegation fight.

Tarkowski has been a key man for Burnley for a number of seasons now. Sean Dyche loves his defender, and branded him as ‘outstanding’ back in 2017. Certainly, Dyche won’t want to lose him.]

TBR’s View: Tarkowski Perfect For Newcastle

If Burnley want a bit more money here, then frankly, Newcastle should just pay it. Tarkowski is more than enough for this current Magpies side and improves the team considerably.

Tarkowski was once valued at around the £50m mark by Burnley. But his contract has run down, so even if they do want a decent fee, it won’t be anywhere near what they might have got before.

In terms of Newcastle, this is a no-brainer signing. Getting Tarkowski in now would be great business.