Everton are poised to throw big wages at James Tarkowski upon the expiry of his Burnley contract at the end of the month, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: Contract expiry

After six years at Turf Moor, the 29-year-old’s contract is set to expire on 30 June.

According to a report by The Athletic, several Premier League clubs are interested in signing the defender. Everton are mentioned in the discussion, but it is understood that Aston Villa are the early favourites to secure Tarkowski’s signature.

The Latest: Jones’ claim on Tarkowski

Given Everton's dire defensive record for the 2021/22 season, Jones expects Everton to go all-out for Tarkowski, who has made 194 appearances in the English top flight.

Speaking with GiveMeSport, the journalist claimed: “From what I understand, they just want that [their defence] fixed as soon as possible. With Tarkowski available as a free agent, if it just means throwing wages at him rather than a fee, then they will be willing to do that.

“I’m not sure they would look at it as a massive gamble because Tarkowski has got such a good track record in the Premier League and, at the end of the day, it can’t get any worse – their defending from last season.”

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The Verdict: Would be a solid signing

Judging by his performance metrics from 2021/22, Tarkowski would provide a solid presence in Everton’s back line if he moves to Goodison Park.

As per FBRef, when compared with positional peers in Europe's top five leagues over the past year, the 29-year-old astonishingly ranks in the 99th percentile for blocks and aerial duels won, and surprisingly also for touches in the attacking penalty area.

Hailed by former Burnley manager Sean Dyche as an “outstanding” defender, it would be a shrewd move if Everton can sign Tarkowski on a free transfer this summer to shore up their porous backline. If that means giving him an upgrade on his current £70,000-a-week wage, so be it.

In other news: Frank McAvennie has reacted to this Everton off-field development