Reporter provides update on future of Newcastle target James Tarkowski

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An update from the Athletic suggests Newcastle United might really struggle to sign James Tarkowski in January.

The Burnley defender was at St James’ Park on Saturday, but as an opposition player. He performed well enough to impress fans, who are hoping to see him in a black and white shirt next month.

Tarkowski has been heavily linked with Newcastle since the takeover went through. The Telegraph reported just days after PIF bought the club that he could be their first signing.

Those rumours have refused to go away, but the latest noise is that a deal might be difficult.

The Northern Echo recently reported that Burnley do not want to sell Tarkowski. They especially don’t want to sell him to Newcastle, who are a direct relegation rival.

But how does the player feel about his future? Speaking on the Athletic’s Football Podcast, reporter Adam Crafton provided some insight.

“On Tarkowski, I’ve been told that he is, at the moment, expecting to stay at Burnley for the rest of the season,” he said.

“Then he’ll be able to go and join a club with a signing on fee in the summer. He’s certainly got no intention of extending his deal.”

Newcastle might have to wait until the summer to sign James Tarkowski

It’s understandable that Burnley don’t want to sell Tarkowski to Newcastle. It could be the difference between staying up and going down.

As for Tarkowski, he’s in a commanding position. If he waits until next summer, he will have the pick of clubs chasing his signature.

Then it will be up to Newcastle to deliver him the best package. Of course, that might be impossible if we do suffer relegation.

Tarkowski has been very loyal to Burnley. It’s no surprise that he expects to stay until the expiry of his contract. He could kick up a fuss and demand a January move, but that doesn’t strike you as something he would do.

The 29-year-old isn’t angling for a January transfer, and Burnley don’t want to sell. That’s a rough combination for Newcastle, who are aiming to make a big splash in January.

Of course, the Clarets and Tarkowski’s stance might change depending on what Newcastle offer.