Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen has admitted that he was close to joining Everton during the summer transfer window.
The 31-year-old Vermaelen moved to Barcelona in 2014 from Arsenal. His time at the club has however been blighted by injuries and he has gone on to make just 22 appearances in all competitions.
He currently appears to be surplus to requirements at the club having only made one appearance so far in all competitions.
It now appears that former Everton boss Ronald Koeman was keen to recruit Vermaelen during the summer in order to bolster the side. Vermaelen has now confirmed that this was the case.
He said: “The board told me they needed four centre-backs. I didn’t have a choice but to stay. Clubs tried until the very last day, like Everton, but it was impossible.
“I wasn’t even able to negotiate. I’m not commenting anymore on my personal situation, the last time I did it, it turned against me.”
