West Ham United have seen a third bid for Burnley defender James Tarkowski turned down. The Hammers offered an improved £31 million bid, but were told they were still some way off Burnley’s valuation, as reported by Sky Sports.
The East London club supposedly offered around £25 million up-front, which contrasted to their previous bid that included around £10 million in add-ons. Whether West Ham will continue in their efforts to sign Tarkowski remains unseen. It seems Burnley are requiring something closer to his £50 million release clause.
West Ham’s Third Bid for James Tarkowski is Rejected by Burnley
West Ham are in Need of Defensive Reinforcements
David Moyes has highlighted that West Ham are in need of defenders for the 2020/21 campaign. The Hammers shipped in 62 goals last season, with only the three relegated clubs and Aston Villa conceding less.
Their persistence to sign Tarkowski indicates that the club are unhappy with their current choices. West Ham have also been trying to bolster their full-back options, with Chelsea’s Emerson Palmieri emerging as their latest target.
It has been 795 days since the Hammers last signed a centre back, according to The Athletic. Therefore, you could forgive David Moyes for being keen to use the money generated in the sale of Grady Diangana to West Brom, to fund a move for a central defender.
A Lateral Move for the Ambitious James Tarkowski
James Tarkowski has previously made it clear that he believes he can play at the highest level. In an interview with the Telegraph’s Matt Law, the defender highlighted his ambition to play in the Champions League and in another international tournament for England.
The Burnley man also believes he is coming into his prime years as a centre back. So, a move to West Ham does not progress his chances of reaching his goals.
Leicester City are believed to still be monitoring Tarkowski’s situation. A move to the King Power stadium would certainly increase his hopes of playing both Champions League and international football in the near future.
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