Everton are close to agreeing a two year deal with Gareth Barry, despite the fact that they will have to fork out £1.5 million for the free agent.
Manager Roberto Martinez believes that Barry has already proved what he can bring to the Everton squad and the fact that he is willing to take a significant cut in wages from the estimated £90,000 a week he was being paid at City – who paid some of his wages last year – makes a deal more likely.
Under the terms of the deal that saw the midfielder on loan at Goodison Park was a clause which says City will get £1million if Barry signs for one year, £1.5million if he signs for two, and £2million for three.
The manager is hopeful that a deal can be done, despite interest from West Ham and QPR. He said: “Football happiness is a major aspect any footballer chases and Gareth and Everton are a perfect fit and the way he has been performing shows he has that footballing happiness.”