There’s an update from Spain on the future of Gerard Deulofeu and a potential permanent move to Watford this summer, and it seems Barcelona are determined to continue to treat the footballer as a commodity.
Earlier this year it was reported Barcelona would try to extend Deulofeu’s contract, which runs out next summer, and increase his €20m buyout clause, all so they could then ask for more money when a permanent transfer actually happens.
Deulofeu himself has made it clear he doesn’t fancy a renewal and doesn’t think he has a Barcelona future.
Watford loaned the player in January and despite problems with injuries, they want to keep him for longer. Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo report the club are planning an offer around €9-10m, about half of the clause.
Barcelona’s plan is to keep Watford holding but wait for developments in the market and hope a better offer comes in at some stage this summer, even if that means dragging things out. Then, if no higher bid comes in, they’ll sell to Watford.
It may be wise for the Premier League club to take back control and put a firm deadline on the move, making it clear they’ll walk away if Barca don’t agree a sale by a certain date.
