With no league appearances yet this season for Barcelona, could Thomas Vermaelen be on his way to Everton when the transfer window reopens in January?
Back in the summer, it seemed there was genuine hope Thomas Vermaelen would join Everton. However, it never came to fruition.
Now we know why, courtesy of the player himself. In an interview with Sky Sports, Vermaelen said:
"“Barcelona always said they didn’t want to let me go. All big clubs need at least four centre-backs. They were happy with my pre-season and kept me.”"
Regardless, is it possible the 31-year-old could still end up eventually moving to Merseyside? As noted by Royal Blue Mersey, he has yet to make an appearance for Barcelona this season.
More from Everton FC News
- Further chaos in Everton takeover as other lenders not keen on 777 Partners
- More madness at Everton as Moshiri now agrees to sell club to 777 Partners
- Everton takeover talk cools after UK govt doubts and further questions
- Takeover talk again as 777 back in for Everton purchase after MSP withdrawal
- Everton striking legend Gray urges Dyche to put Beto and DCL up front
Certainly, Vermaelen would fill the Blues’ need for cover on the left side of defence. However, it’s worth considering he isn’t the same player he was back in his Arsenal days.
In addition, there is theoretically still the issue of Barcelona themselves continuing to need cover at centre-back. With just under two years remaining on the Belgium international’s current contract, it’s tough to envision him making the move to Everton in January.
Either way though, Vermaelen is confident embattled manager Ronald Koeman — who gave him his debut at Ajax back in 2003 — will get the Blues back on track. As he told Sky Sports:
"“He’s shown at Southampton and Ajax that he’s a great manager. He has the experience to turn it around for sure.”"
For Koeman’s sake, he better hope he can back up the faith Vermaelen has in him. Otherwise, come January time, the former Dutch international may not be around to at least inquire about the defender.
Next: Giving up penalties reveals much about Baines
What’s your opinion of Vermaelen? Would you be satisfied to see him join Everton in January, as cover for the left side of defence? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.