OPINION
West Brom are reportedly set to reignite a move to sign Everton midfielder Gareth Barry.
The Mail claim that Tony Pulis has already targeted the 36-year-old this summer and is now expected to return with a two-year contract offer.
It is understood that the former England international is pushing for a move away from Goodison Park due to the fierce competition for central midfield positions.
Good move for Everton?
Barry has fallen down the pecking order at Everton and it seems fair to let the loyal servant leave Goodison Park in the summer.
The veteran midfielder is reaching the latter stages of his career and it’s understandable that Ronald Koeman has gone in a different direction as his side try to break into the top four.
He did make 34 appearances across all competitions last season and is still a reliable figure in the centre of the park.
However, the likes of Morgan Schneiderlin, Tom Davies, Idrissa Gueye, Davy Klaassen and James McCarthy are all competing alongside him for a spot.
The Toffees are also strongly linked with Gylfi Sigurdsso and losing Barry should not do too much harm to their squad.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
With Barry pursuing a move away from the Merseyside club it seems quite likely that West Brom would be a good suitor.
He could still do a job in the Baggies midfield and replace Darren Fletcher in the side, who has completed a move to Stoke this summer.
Everton’s vast options at central midfielder means Barry is going to be on the fringes of the squad if he stays and still believes he has the quality to contribute, meaning this deal seems very probable.
This Is Futbol rating: 8/10