Barcelona have officially re-signed Spanish striker Gerard Deulofeu from Everton after exercising their buy-back option within the player’s contract.
The Catalan giants confirmed the transfer on Friday, taking to their official website and social media channels toannounce terms will be agreed with both the player and the Toffees.
Deulofeu, who is currently on international duty with Spain Under-21s, will put pen to paper on a two year deal with the club.
‘FC Barcelona have activated the buy-back clause for Gerard Deulofeu,’ the Catalan side announced on their website.
‘In the following days, the terms will be agreed with both Everton and the player. Deulofeu’s contract will run until 30 June 2019.’
In a twist to the tale Barca have confirmed the recapture of the player, despite Deulofeu having expressed his concerns about heading back to the La Liga giants.
Deulofeu, a product of the famous La Masia academy, cost Everton £4.2m and made a great impact on his arrival in the Premier League with his lightning speed off the mark tormenting defenders.
However it soon emerged he would not be part of Ronald Koeman’s long-term plans at Goodison Park and a loan move to Italian side AC Milan soon followed.
It was with Milan that Deulofeu again started to impress, taking to Serie A football with aplomb and getting himself among the goals.
With the forward berths at Barcelona being occupied by the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar, Deulofeu has the odds of picking up any playing time stacked heavily against him.
The striker may soon be set for another loan deal, while it has also been reported that Barca could simply be retaining his services in order to sell the player on for a greater profit.
Italian champions Juventus had also made their interest clear and fellow clubs in La Liga were keen to lure Deulofeu back to his native Spain.
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