Everton sign Gareth Barry from Manchester City on a three-year-deal

Gareth Barry has officially joined Everton permanently

Everton have made their first signing of the summer transfer window as former Aston Villa and Manchester City midfielder, Gareth Barry, signs a three-year deal with the Toffees.

Barry, 33, spent the whole of last season on loan with Everton and was fantastic in a deep midfield position next to James McCarthy, who was brought in from Wigan Athletic.

It marks the start of Everton’s summer movement ahead of an important season after challenging for a top four finish last season, but ultimately missing out and finishing just short in fifth place.

There have been plenty of reports in recent weeks that have suggested that Barry would make his move to Goodison Park a permanent one after earning rave reviews and praise from his teammates, people at the club and the fans in stands for his performances last season.

Barry, who has been capped by England a total of 53 times, will probably now end his career with Everton as a three-year deal will take him to the age of 36 before it expires and one would imagine that would be a good age for him to go.

Barry will join up with the majority of Everton’s first-team squad when they report to Finch Farm for the start of pre-season training on Thursday.

Gareth Barry has become our first signing of the summer, agreeing a 3-year deal.#Barry#efcpic.twitter.com/OwX48HwRAX

— Everton (@Everton)July 8, 2014