Everton look to Italy for long-term Barry replacement

Everton manager Ronald Koeman is pondering a move for Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman as he steps up his hunt for a long-term replacement for Gareth Barry, reports the Sunday Mirror. 

Barry has started all nine of Everton’s league matches this season, but at 35 years of age, the former England international’s career is drawing to a close. 

Dutchman Strootman tops Koeman’s wish list as Barry’s successor in the middle of the park at Goodison Park. 

However, the Toffees boss is holding back from making a move for the 26-year-old in January as he waits on Strootman’s fitness. 

The midfielder has endured two serious knee injuries during his time in Italy and Koeman is waiting to see how he recovers before sanctioning a transfer. 

Strootman, though, has managed seven Serie A starts for Roma this season, gaining a WhoScored rating of 7.32 in the process, which will appeal to Koeman. 

The Netherlands international will have 18 months to run on his current deal in Rome when the January transfer window opens, while Everton have a hefty transfer war chest to help improve the squad.

For more stats on Kevin Strootman, click here to view his WhoScored player page