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CONFIRMED: Everton snap up Gareth Barry from Man City
EVERTON have won the race for Manchester City star and Arsenal target Gareth Barry.
The 33-year-old has penned a three-year-deal with Roberto Martinez's side, and becomes their first signing of the summer.
Barry joined the Toffees last season on a one-year loan and made an immediate impact as he helped them to an impressive fifth place in the Premier League.
The former England international was out of contract at the Etihad, and Manuel Pellegrini has decided not to renew his deal after landing Porto anchorman Fernando.
Gareth Barry Player Profile
Gareth Barry has become our first signing of the summer, agreeing a 3-year deal. #Barry #efc pic.twitter.com/OwX48HwRAX
— Everton (@Everton) July 8, 2014
I've learned so much from the boss, it's a great set of players and the fans are fantastic
Barry, who came close to joining Liverpool before moving to City, had also been a target for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, but the Frenchman dropped his interest after moving for Germany and Real Madrid star Sami Khedira.
Barry admitted he was thrilled to join the Merseyside club on a permanent basis, enthusing: "I've learned so much from the boss, it's a great set of players and the fans are fantastic - everything about Everton feels right."
Martinez has admitted that his side will be targeting loan signings this summer, and his next step will be to make a move for Chelsea man and former Newcastle forward Demba Ba.
The Toffees are also keeping tabs on Romelu Lukaku's situation after Atletico Madrid turned their attentions to Bayern Munich striker Mario Mandzukic, and will be hoping they can land one of the Chelsea pair.
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