James Tarkowsi has become Everton’s first signing of the summer.
Tarkowski penned a four-year contract with the Goodison Park club as a free agent on Saturday after his deal at Burnley expired at the end of last month.
The former England international, who will wear the no.2 shirt vacated by Jonjoe Kenny, joins the Blues with a wealth of Premier League experience.
He made 194 top-flight appearances for the Clarets and started more than 30 games in each of his five seasons prior to joining Frank Lampard’s side.
“I’m really looking forward to the years ahead and I’m thankful for the opportunity that I’ve been given,” said Tarkowski.
“Speaking to the manager, it was very important to see what he wants from his players and his team, what he saw in me and why he wanted to sign me.
“Speaking to [Director of Football] Kevin Thelwell was also a factor. They both spoke about the ambition here which was really important for me.
“I’m an ambitious person, I want to achieve, I want to win things and I’ve come here to be successful.
“And then there are the Everton fans. The support they gave the team last season was incredible. You saw just how big the fanbase is.
“Despite a difficult season, Everton fans got behind their team more than ever. I think they are a massive factor about this club.
“Hopefully successful times are ahead and, with the talent we have in the squad, we can give the fans something they really enjoy.”