Torino are hopeful of a loan deal for Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen but a move will only go through should the Catalans cover his wages, say reports.
According to Sky Sport Italia, the Belgian international – who spent last seas on on loan at Serie A rivals Roma – is wanted by the Turin-based club, although they would struggle to cover his annual wage bill €2.5m.
It is likely the Catalan club would be willing to negotiate on the 31-year-old’s wages due to his lack of demand and suitors in the transfer market.
Vermaelen has played only 11 La Liga matches for the Blaugrana whom he joined from Arsenal in 2014 and a loan move to the Giallorossi was largely unsuccessful – featuring in only 12 matches across all competitions.
The Belgian international has had his career curtailed from injuries, lack of fitness and poor form, with another exit from the Camp Nou this summer highly likely.