From Barcelona: Watford to negotiate Deulofeu permanent signing, really strange situation

Watford have now decided, report Mundo Deportivo, they want to sign Gerard Deulofeu from Barcelona permanently.

Despite the Spaniard suffering from an ankle injury, and that somewhat spoiling his loan to the Premier League club, it’s being claimed Watford want him to stick around for longer.

Javi Gracia and those in charge have discussed the situation, and come to the decision that negotiations should be opened. Watford are said to be aware that they very much depend on the will on the player, so even if they come to an agreement with Barcelona, it may still fall apart.

One would think that with Deulofeu actually being at the club, they would simply ask him.

Strangely, Mundo Deportivo claim Barcelona want to enter talks with Deulofeu’s agent and increase his release clause from €25m. Last summer it was widely reported to be €20m, so perhaps the Catalan newspaper have made a mistake today.

With a contract expiring in 2019, Barcelona’s plan would be to extend and increase the clause, potentially getting them more money from a transfer. If Barca get that extension, Watford would look for a loan, and if not they’ll ask for a straight price.

Should Mundo Deportivo be correct then it appears Barcelona are continuing to treat Deulofeu as a commodity, and surely this time he’s got to tell them where to go.