Everton are eyeing bringing former Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen back to the Premier League, according to Italian outlet Tutto Mercato.
The Belgian centre-back left Arsenal last summer to join Spanish giants Barcelona, however he has not yet featured for the Catalan giants after being plagued by injury.
Vermaelen has recently started to ease his way back into training, but the jury is still out on whether he will make his Barcelona debut before the end of the campaign.
And if Everton succeed in tempting Vermaelen back to England, he may leave the Camp Nou without kicking a single ball.
Everton have endured a tough campaign and Toffees boss Roberto Martinez is desperate to revitalise the club's defence next term.
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The Spaniard feels that Vermaelen could be a vital addition for Everton as he looks to guide the side back into top four contention next season.
Vermaelen has considerable Premier League experience, having clocked up 150 appearances for Arsenal during his spell at the Emirates Stadium.
The 29-year-old's current contract with Barcelona lasts until the summer of 2019.
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