Everton could still bring the Barcelona man to Goodison Park early next year.
Bookmakers Ladbrokes have made Everton 7/4 favourites to sign Thomas Vermaelen when the transfer window reopens in January.
In recent comments published by Sky Sports, the Barcelona centre-back refused to be drawn on rumours linking him with an unsuccessful move to the Toffees back in the summer, but it seems the 31-year-old continues to be linked with a return to England and a move to Merseyside.
Everton could certainly do with more defensive quality, with summer signing Michael Keane struggling for consistency, Phil Jagielka coming to the end of his career and Ashley Williams delivering sub-performances for weeks.
Vermaelen has had his own issues with injury over the years and has only managed 21 appearances since his surprise move to Barcelona back in 2014.
A loan spell at AS Roma last season was hit-and-miss to say the least, with minor setbacks befalling him throughout the campaign.
But there is no doubting the player’s experience and as he continues to be overlooked by Barcelona, it would make sense for Vermaelen to try his hand back in England where things went so well for him in the past.
Everton fans may not be too excited by the prospect of welcoming the injury-prone defender to the club, but the bookies certainly think it is a distinct possibility.
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