A Report in The Sun today suggests (via The Mirror) that Everton are looking to make the signing of Gareth Barry permanent. Nothing wrong with that at all that so far. Barry was one of the main catalysts for Everton’s success last season, putting in shift after shift of faultless composure in the midfield.
Even though he didn’t get that much playing time towards the end of his Manchester City career his time there clearly improved him as a player and, even at 33, he is a powerful and intelligent central midfielder – a real credit to Everton.
The thing that bothers us is the deal mentioned – 11 million squid!
Although the transfer fee would only be in the region of £2m an £11 million outlay for a player who is going to be 33 and a half years young by the start of next season is quite a financial investment in terms of wages.
There are of course exceptions to the rule. But by the time players hit 34 they are generally on the wane.
Gareth Barry may be able to go on longer at Everton because his role requires diligence and quality rather than pure athleticism in that holding midfield role.
If Barry can give three more years of service to the club and just sit gradually deeper and allow his passing to do the talking then he may well prove to be worth every penny.
We just hope that the potential Everton star can give as much for the next 2 or 3 seasons as he did in the one just passed.
Everton fans – worth the cash?
Kenny
Jun 4, 2014 at 5:03 pm
The £11m they are referring to is a 3 year deal on £60k a week and £2m transfer fee to City = £11m
Jonesy
Jun 4, 2014 at 5:06 pm
3 yr deal…wages £3mn per year (about 60k a week….or going rate for a really decent prem player) plus the £2mn we apparently agreed to hand over if he eventually signed for us. So…..
£3mn + £3mn + 3mn + £2mn = £11mn
The Everton manager isnt going to pay City 11mn for a player who’s contract is ending.
B Harker
Jun 4, 2014 at 5:11 pm
Re-read the story. You have got this wrong.
£2 million fee (as agreed with City prior to the loan) + £9 million wages (3 years at £60k a week)…
Probably worth it.
CaptainFerguson10
Jun 4, 2014 at 5:13 pm
The Echo reporter, Greg O’Keefe, poo pooed the story earlier today so relax lads. I would want Barry to stay, but on a maximum of two year deal if he wants 60k per week.
jonesy
Jun 5, 2014 at 12:04 pm
I thought that at first Capt…then someone pointed out how much Barry has helped bring on McCarthy and that we have a young lad, Ledson, who in a couple of years could be one of the best defensive mids in the league.
If Barry’s 3rd and last year is only mentoring Ledson and the odd cameo in the cups, if he helps Ledson develop to his full potential, he’ll be worth his wages!.