Reporter claims Newcastle will make fresh James Tarkowski move

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Talk of James Tarkowski joining Newcastle United has returned.

The Burnley centre-back was heavily linked with the Magpies shortly after the PIF takeover was completed in October. It was even reported by the Telegraph that he was expected to become one of the club’s first January signings.

However, that optimism quickly disappeared. Despite his contract expiring this summer, it was reported that Burnley did not want to sell Tarkowski – particularly to a relegation rival like Newcastle.

Their stance made sense, and ensured the Magpies looked elsewhere for defensive reinforcements.

However, Newcastle are yet to sign a centre-back this month despite the obvious need. Instead, they’ve brought in a right-back and a striker.

It hasn’t been for lack of trying though. Bids for Sven Botman have fallen flat, while the lengthy pursuit of Diego Carlos continues almost two weeks after he first emerged as a target.

After the draw with Watford, Eddie Howe’s need for new recruits is even greater. And that means he could turn back to a previous target.

Newcastle reignite James Tarkowski interest

According to Sun reporter Alan Nixon, Newcastle are going to target the 29-year-old once again.

He wrote on Twitter: “Newcastle. Going to make a new move for Tarkowski at Burnley. Will take a lot of money despite his contract status. Howe wants TWO centre backs … busy busy.”

Tarkowski would add the Premier League experience that Howe reportedly craves. And it would also see him link back up with Chris Wood, who joined the Magpies last week.

But for that reason, this deal feels incredibly unlikely.

Newcastle shocked Burnley last week by activating Wood’s £25million release clause. We got the striker we needed and heavily weakened a direct relegation rival.

It reportedly infuriated Sean Dyche’s side. So why would they willingly sell another one of their top players to Newcastle?

Burnley are in a better position here, despite Tarkowski’s contract edging closer to its conclusion. The lack of a release clause means Newcastle don’t have a direct route to completing this transfer.

While the England international is the type of player we need, a move from Turf Moor to St James’ Park feels even more unlikely than it did a month or so go.