BURNLEY remain in the running to sign long-term target James Tarkowski.

The Clarets could make a deadline day move for the Brentford defender to bolster their squad in the race for promotion to the Premier League.

The Bees are making efforts to sign a centre half, giving the impression that the wantaway defender could leave if a replacement was found before today’s 11pm deadline with Burnley leading the chase.

The fee is expected to be around £3m.

The 23-year-old has not featured for Dean Smith's side since refusing to play in the televised clash with Burnley last month.

The former Oldham defender pulled out of that match despite being named in the starting XI and then subsequently issued a statement saying he would like to return to his native north west to be closer to his mother who is suffering from illness.