Villa make ‘first moves’ for Tarkowski

VILLA have been identified as the early favourites to sign Burnley defender James Tarkowksi.

The England international is set to become a free agent this summer as his contract at Turf Moor comes to an end.

Following the Clarets’ relegation from the Premier League, several top-flight clubs have been credited with an interest in signing Tarkowski.

Sources claim Villa are the early frontrunners, despite reaching an agreement with Sevilla for centre-back Diego Carlos last week.

The club are now being tipped to bring further defensive reinforcements to Villa Park.

Everton are interested in Tarkowski, while Newcastle have also been linked, but they will face substantial competition from Villa for the 29-yearold’s signature, the Birmingham Post understands.

It has been suggested Villa opened talks over a potential move prior to announcing the club’s agreement with Carlos.

It was also claimed they had offered to double Tarkowski’s wages in an attempt to get ahead of their transfer rivals.

In addition to the incoming Carlos and reports surrounding Tarkowski, Villa have also been credited with a potential move for Rangers defender Calvin Bassey.

However, former Villa and West Ham striker Frank McAvennie doesn’t believe the 22-year-old is good enough to move to the Premier League.

“If Gerrard is buying him, it’s because he has done a job in Scotland,’’ he said.

“England is a whole different game. He’s muscle-bound but if he comes up against someone like Jack Grealish he will get ripped apart.

“I’m sorry to say but that’s the truth. Another year with Rangers and maybe he might be ready.

“At this moment, the brutal truth is he’s not good enough.”