Everton have reportedly asked Manchester City about the possibility of signing Gareth Barry on a season-long loan.
The 32-year-old midfielder is in the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium and was an unused substitute in City's 4-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday, with £30m signing Fernandinho taking his place in the centre of the park.
CItizens boss Manuel Pellegrini is keen for Barry to stay at Eastlands and add depth to his midfield, but the England international is understood to want first-team assurances in a World Cup year.
Toffees boss Roberto Martinez is making contingency plans for if Marouane Fellaini leaves for Manchester United, and believes that Barry could add valuable experience to his squad, according to The Express.
However, it is understood that Everton would need City to help subsidise Barry's wages if he were to move to Goodison Park on a one-year deal.
Joe Fish
