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Gerard Deulofeu possibly returning to Barcelona became a possibility, even if at first a remote one, when Luis Enrique announced he wouldn’t be continuing as manager beyond the current season.

Enrique wasn’t impressed with Deulofeu and sent him out on loan to Sevilla, then a permanent move to Everton followed and there was no suggestion the buyback clause was something Barcelona were set to use.

Ronald Koeman wasn’t a fan at Everton and Deulofeu failed to get the prominence he felt his talents deserve, so pushed for a move during the winter window.

The player’s better form for AC Milan after joining on loan from Everton has of course helped open up the possibility of a Barcelona return and Marca cover that on Wednesday.

Deulofeu is seen as a value option, with his buyback clause stated as €12m and ‘not exorbitant’. Other options Screen Shot 2017-03-22 at 08.23.28include Sevilla’s Vitolo, but Marca reckon he’d cost at least €30m.

It all depends on Barcelona’s next manager and Marca say the Everton owned player will be presented as an option to them.

With both Koeman, a Barcelona legend, and Enrique finding Deulofeu difficult to work with and get the most out of, the odds have been stacked against a return.

The 23 year old will have to go some way to ensure that clause is used.