Exclusive: Everton hit by 'huge' James Tarkowski blow

28/04/2025 08:19

Everton defender James Tarkowski could miss the start of the 2025-26 campaign in a “huge” blow for David Moyes, sources have told Football Insider.

The 32-year-old had been ever-present as captain under David Moyes but suffered a serious hamstring injury in the loss against Man City on 19 April.

Tarkowski will undergo surgery and his recovery could continue into the new campaign.

Sources say Everton had planned to dip into the transfer market to add a new centre-back even before his injury – and will now accelerate those plans.

Everton to accelerate defender move after Tarkowski injury

Jake O’Brien moved into the heart of Moyes’ defence for the 1-0 away loss at Chelsea on Saturday (26 April), with Nathan Patterson coming in at right-back.

Tarkowski had played 90 minutes in every Premier League game this season before his injury.

The Everton captain is under contract on Merseyside until June 2026 after joining on a free transfer three years ago.

Tarkowski has made 119 appearances for the Toffees and has also played in the Premier League with former club Burnley.

Everton are putting transfer plans in place following The Friedkin Group’s takeover and ahead of their move to the new Bramley Moore Dock stadium.

Everton could land £30m Medina deal

Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed last week (21 April) that Everton will go toe-to-toe with Aston Villa and Newcastle United for Facundo Medina's signature this summer.

Medina is capable of playing at both centre-back and left-back and Lens value the Argentine in the region of £25million to £30million.

The Argentinian’s form this season has drawn interest from the Premier League ahead of the transfer window.

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The post Exclusive: Everton hit by 'huge' James Tarkowski blow appeared first on Football Insider.