The winger makes a permanent return to Goodison Park
Gerard Deulofeu has today completed his permanent return Everton, after signing from La Liga giants Barcelona for £4.2 million (approximately €6 million).
The Spanish international spent the 2013-14 Premier League season on a season long loan at the Merseyside club, scoring on his debut in a 2-1 home win over Stevenage in the second round Football League Cup.
However, his most memorable contribution for the majority Everton fans was the late equaliser he scored in a 1-1 draw against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
The 21-year old was an instant hit in his first spell at the Toffees and has remained a fan favourite ever since, many Evertonians are delighted with the deal to bring him to the club permanently.
It didn’t go to plan at Barcelona
Despite being offered a first team place by Luis Enrique at the beginning of the recent campaign, Deulofeu was shipped out on another season long loan to fellow La Liga side Sevilla.
It didn’t go to plan at Barcelona for Catalonian-born attacker, but branded as Everton’s very own ‘magic man’, Deulofeu feels like he has returned home.
The Spaniard becomes Everton’s second signing of the summer transfer window, following the capture of Tom Cleverley on a free transfer after his release from Manchester United.
Deulofeu, who has signed a three-year contract, admitted his relationship with manager Roberto Martinez was the biggest pull factor in joining the Blues. It is rumoured he even rejected better personal terms from other interested clubs.
When speaking evertonfc.com, Everton boss Roberto Martinez said: “Gerard needs no introduction to anyone here at Everton, for we are all well aware of his incredible footballing talent.”
He also said: “We got to know him really well from his loan period, not only as such a talented player but also his great character. He will be a fantastic asset to our club.”
Kieran Makin
