Everton: Is Thomas Vermaelen the solution in defence?

As Everton consider their options to strengthen the back line, Belgium international Thomas Vermaelen could be just who they’re looking for.

We’ve written recently about how Everton would like to sign another defender — preferably someone who can play on the left side — before August 31. The reason comes down to Ramiro Funes Mori being set to miss the majority of the 2017/18 campaign, along with Leighton Baines likely being unable to met the demands of a full season.

So, who is the most likely candidate to fill this role? The Echo‘s Kristian Walsh wrote an excellent piece on Tuesday, offering eight potential options.

Of the eight, we were particularly intrigued by Thomas Vermaelen. As such, we thought we would expand on Walsh’s comments regarding the veteran defender.

Vermaelen will already be familiar to Evertonians, from his time at Arsenal. He spent five seasons in North London, before moving to Barcelona following the 2013/14 campaign.

In theory, you could ask why the 31-year-old would even want to leave the Nou Camp? The truth is, he has not enjoyed the best of times during his three seasons in Spain.

Plagued by injuries, Vermaelen has only made 21 appearances for Barcelona, since arriving from Arsenal. And last season, he was loaned out to Roma on a one-year deal, with the option to sign him to a permanent deal.

After only playing 12 times for Roma, the team is not expected to go down this path. As such, Vermaelen now finds himself back at Barcelona, out of favour and still with two year remaining on his current contract.

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Taking all these recent developments into account, Everton fans could be forgiven for asking why their club should even consider making a move for the centre-back?

However, keep in mind Vermaelen was consistently good for the majority of his time with the Gunners. He was reliable in defence, showed leadership qualities and was capable of popping up with a timely goal here and there.

(He scored 14 goals during his first three seasons with Arsenal. This included one campaign, where he only played five times, due to an Achilles tendon problem.)

As Walsh points out, the chances are Vermaelen would be comfortable serving as the backup Everton require, after not featuring as much in recent seasons. And they would still be getting a player with extensive experience playing around Europe and at the international level.

West Bromwich Albion are reportedly interested in signing the former member of Ajax’s youth academy. However, Ronald Koeman should definitely take a look at Vermaelen and offer him the opportunity to move to Merseyside, so he can contribute towards their assault on a top four spot.

Next: Blues interested in Dutch international Wesley Hoedt

What is your take on Vermaelen? Do you believe he would help the Blues, or should they look elsewhere to find another defender? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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