Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen has decided to remain silent on speculation which linked him with a move to Everton in the summer.

Toffees boss Ronald Koeman was vocal in his attempts to sign a versatile left-footed defender before the end of the transfer window, with Vermaelen said to be a target for the Dutchman.

However, Vermaelen eventually remained at Camp Nou, and the former Arsenal man has suggested that he is happy to have stayed with the Catalan giants.

The 31-year-old told Sky Sports News: "I don't want to go into details. Barcelona always said they didn't want to let me go.

"All big clubs need at least four centre-backs. They were happy with my pre-season and kept me."

Vermaelen is yet to make an appearance for Barcelona this season.