Everton close in on Gareth Barry deal

Everton are on the verge of announcing a deal to sign midfielder Gareth Barry on a free transfer. Barry played at Goodison Park on loan last season, impressing manager Roberto Martinez.

Barry is said to be desperate to play on in the Premier League and a number of teams have expressed some interest in the former Aston Villa player.

Roberto Martinez said of Barry: "Gareth is such a unique person, I have been so impressed and I think everyone at the club has taken to him.

"For us he would be an important player for the future. But we respect him as a human being and we are going to accept whatever he decides. We will make sure that whatever happens, we are here to support him in every aspect.

"He has been a special player for us and we will try to give him an incentive to stay -- even though there is nothing you can say to a player who has experienced everything in the last 10 months.

"Football happiness is a major aspect any footballer chases. Gareth and Everton are a perfect fit and the way he has been performing shows he has that footballing happiness.

"We all know what Gareth brings and how important that is."