Everton boss Roberto Martinez has claimed that Gerard Deulofeu could stay at the club beyond the end of this season.
The young striker is currently on loan at the Premier League side from Barcelona, and despite suggestions he will return to Camp Nou come May, the Spanish tactician has insisted that the Blaugrana prospect may continue his development with the Toffees.
“I think he was taken out of context. The interview was on Catalan radio and the question was ‘Would you like to play one day for the Barcelona first team?’
“The answer is going to be, as a Barcelona player who has been there since he was eight, yes because that’s his focus and wish for the future,” Martinez told the Liverpool Echo.
“But the interview does not imply he definitely will not remain here next season.
“He never said he’s not enjoying his time at Everton. He has loved the test in the Premier League and being with us.
“We all share the view that nobody will be prouder than every Everton fan, and person connected with Everton, to see Gerard Deulofeu’s career has improved here.
“We’ve benefited from having his talents with us.
“Our agreement with Barcelona was to have him for one season though and that’s where we are.”
