Burnley close in on £3m deal for Brentford defender

Burnley are reportedly closing in on the £3 million signing of Brentford defender James Tarkowski, according to Sky Sources.

The 23-year-old refused to play against the Clarets in their Championship fixture earlier this month after the Lancashire side had a bid for his services rejected, but the centre-back has since confirmed the decision was made because of his mother’s illness.

The Manchester-born player is now keen to move back to the north west to be closer to his mum, and it is understood that a deal has now been agreed between the two clubs.

Tarkowski has made 74 appearances in all competitions for the Bees since making the move from Oldham in 2013, scoring four goals.