Barcelona are reportedly open to sending defender Thomas Vermaelen to Everton on a loan deal, according to Mundo Deportivo.

What's the story?

The Toffees have been one of the busiest Premier League clubs in the transfer window this summer, bringing in seven new players and spending more than £100m.

Now, Mundo Deportivo has suggested that the Merseyside outfit have turned their attention to Vermaelen as an option at the back.

The Belgian defender has been part of the Catalan club since 2014 when he moved from Arsenal, but injuries have hampered his progress.

The 31-year-old spent last season on loan at Roma, but his poor injury record is unlikely to win him a place back in the Barcelona team.

Could this work out for Everton?

The Toffees have not been shy spending their money this summer, but if they are going to bring in Vermaelen they need to make sure that it is a loan rather than a permanent deal.

There is no doubting the Belgian's ability as a defender, but he is not one to take a chance on, considering his experience with injuries.

Vermaelen has started just seven La Liga games for Barcelona over three years, which is worrying for any potential suitor.

However, if Everton can get him to Goodison Park on loan, then there he is more than capable of being a decent back-up for the likes of Michael Keane, Ashley Williams and Phil Jagielka.

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