Everton manager Roberto Martinez has moved to confirm speculations that the Toffees are looking to turn Gareth Barry’s loan deal into permanent move.
The England international has largely impressed since arriving at Goodison Park on loan from Manchester City, and it is hardly surprising that Roberto Martinez wants him to stay.
And despite Arsenal also being linked with a move for the player whose contract at Manchester City is due to expire in the summer, the Spaniard believes Barry will accept an offer from Everton.
“Whenever we have other clubs looking into our players that’s a good sign. I take it as a compliment, but our agreement (with Barry) was that in the summer we’ll sit down and see what’s best for him,” Martinez said at a press conference.
“With Gareth, the relationship was clear from beginning. He was a massive target of ours in the summer.
“The relationship was to make sure he goes back to his very best, and make sure he has a big role at Everton. It doesn’t change now.
“He has had an incredible career and he can choose where he wants to go. He was available last summer and he chose us.”
Gareth Barry has been in scintillating form this season, having scored 3 goals and produced as many assists in 20 Premier League outings.
Everton may have suffered a major blow to their Champions League hopes by losing to top 4 rivals Tottenham, but the Toffees look a good bet at 4/6 to finish the Premier League campaign in top 6.
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