Everton have agreed a deal to bring one of the brightest prospects of Barcelona and Spain, Gerard Deulofeu, to Goodison Park on a year-long loan. 

The 19-year-old was in sparkling form last season, scoring 18 goals for Barcelona B in 33 appearances, and signed a new contract in May that runs until 2017.

Although the Spain U-21 international has signed a first-team contract, he has made only two appearances last season and the arrival of Brazilian sensation Neymar, could further limit his opportunities at the club this season.

It is understood that Roberto Martinez was the key reason why Barcelona agreed to send him on loan. The Catalan management trusts the Spaniard and believes, that under his tutelage, the wonder-boy would get regular first team opportunities and proper nurturing, which would help him mature as a player.

“Gerard is a real diamond of Spanish football and a boy with incredible footballing talent and I am delighted that he has chosen to take the next step of his career with Everton,” said Martinez as quoted in The Guardian.

Deulofeu is a creative midfielder, who mainly plays off the front or from the left hand side. The youngster possesses great technical abilities with a vision to pick fine passes and has represented Spain at U16, U17, U19, and U21 levels.

The Spaniard has become the fourth signing of the season for Everton. Martinez wasted no time in raiding his former club Wigan Athletic and brought in striker Arouna Kone, defender Antolin Alcaraz, and goal keeper Joel Robles.

Everton starts their Premier League campaign away to Norwich City on August 17th and will play their first home game on 24th August against West Brom.

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