Everton boss Ronald Koeman eyes up shock swoop for Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen
Former Arsenal star spent last season on loan with Roma, and looks destined for a move back to Premier League
RONALD KOEMAN is eyeing a shock raid on his old club Barcelona for former Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen.
The Everton boss has been tipped off he can do a cheap deal for the Belgian, 31, and has been trying to sort out a move to add him to his squad.
Vermaelen will leave the Nou Camp after an injury-hit spell - he even picked up a new strain in a pre-season friendly at the end of last week.
However, Koeman thinks he would be great cover as Everton look to fight for trophies at home and abroad this season.
Vermaelen is wanted back home in Belgium by Anderlecht, but he would prefer a final crack at the Premier League after quitting the Gunners in 2014.
West Brom are also keen as their attempts to get Manchester United’s Chris Smalling have stalled.
Baggies boss Tony Pulis went direct to Jose Mourinho but was told the England star, 27, is not available just now despite United’s new arrivals.
It is also frustrating for Burnley, who want to sign Craig Dawson from Albion once they land a replacement.
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The Toffees have been very active this window, where they have brought in the likes of Wayne Rooney, Davy Klaassen, Jordan Pickford and Sandro Ramirez to Goodison Park.
However they still remain keen on strengthening their squad, as a £50million swoop for Swansea City star Gylfi Sigurdsson remains in the pipeline.
While Sassuolo striker Diego Falcinelli could be an option if they fail to bring Olivier Giroud in from Arsenal.
Everton forward Ademola Lookman is a target for Derby County boss Gary Rowett as he eyes up a move to bring him in on a season-long loan deal.
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