Everton Sign Deulofeu

Everton have completed the signing of Gerard Deulofeu for approximately £4.2m on a three year deal, with an option for a fourth.

The modest fee for one of Europe’s brightest talents is largely a result of Barcelona retaining a buy-back clause.

Deulofeu, 21, was insistent on a return to Everton after a successful loan spell in 2013/14, and insisted on the move being permanent instead of another temporary arrangement.

He spent last term on a distinctly less rewarding loan at Sevilla, with only 15 starts for the Europa League winners with his last outing a 28-minute cameo from the bench on April 26.

“Gerard needs no introduction to anyone here at Everton. We are all well aware of his incredible footballing talent,” stated Everton boss Roberto Martinez.

“Gerard considers Everton as home and we are getting an even more mature player now than he was a couple of seasons ago.”

Deulofeu made 29 appearances for Everton, scoring four times. He will become the club’s second signing of the summer, after the free transfer capture of Tom Cleverley.