Gabby Agbonlahor has backed Aston Villa to sign James Tarkowski and added that the Newcastle United transfer target is ‘worth every penny’, as he told talkSPORT.
The 29-year-old, who is out-of-contract at Turf Moor in June, was relegated with Burnley on the last day of the Premier League season.
Now, the likes of Villa, Everton and Newcastle are keen to secure his free talents ahead of next season, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Given his experience, lack of transfer fee involved and age, it is a no-brainer for some teams, especially those outside of Europe.
When Agbonlahor was told that Villa have offered Tarkowski a ‘double-your-money’ offer, he backed them to get the deal done.
“Do it,” said Agbonlahor. “He’s worth every penny. I love watching him. He’s been patient as well for his move.
“He wants to play in a better team. Top defender. Aggressive. Decent on the ball. I think that’s what Aston Villa could do with next to Tyrone Mings.
“In previous seasons, there was talk wasn’t there? Was it Newcastle? They couldn’t pay the fee that Burnley asked.
“Now he’s on a free transfer, it’s perfect. He can choose now. His agent can say ‘what’s the best offer are you going to give, Tarkowski?'”
FREE-TRANSFER SPREE TO START VILLA’S SUMMER?
The owners of Villa – Wes Edens and Nassef Sawiris – are one of the richest in English football and they have the funds to splash the cash.
The joint co-owners have already shown that in recent windows, Villa’s financial book is healthy enough for them to go again.
But, they might just start their summer spree by actually landing a few deals without any transfer fee needed.
Boubacar Kamara has been the first one through the doors, and there seems to be hope that Tarkowski joins him.
But what could be even more ambitious and crazy, is that there are rumours Steven Gerrard wants to add Luis Suarez to his ranks after leaving Atletico Madrid.
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