Tarkowski signs new Everton deal and eyes Europe

Everton defender James Tarkowski has signed a two-year contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2028.

The 32-year-old joined on a free transfer from Burnley in 2022 and has made 128 appearances for the Toffees.

Tarkowski, capped twice by England, was named vice-captain of the club in 2023.

After an unbeaten start to life at the club's new stadium this term, Tarkowski says the club can achieve European qualification under David Moyes.

"It's been a crazy few years with some big lows and some massive highs. We've managed to get through those tough times and hopefully now we're on to more positive and exciting times ahead," said Tarkowski.

"It's always been an ambition of mine to play European football. I had a brief spell with Burnley in the qualifiers but we didn't make it to the group stages, so I want to get there.

"It's the manager's goal, it's our goal as a team and, so far, we've started pretty well. Of course, it could have been better but we've had a decent start and we're definitely striving to get into those European spots and bring European football to our new stadium."

Tarkowski has started all seven of Everton's Premier League matches this term, with Moyes' side eighth in the table.