Go for it Gracia – Watford splashing €20m on this talented attacker could be a shrewd move

The future of Gerard Deulofeu looks set to be a key talking point throughout the summer as the Spaniard’s career has hit a crossroad.

Having spent six months on loan at Watford, the 24-year-old was able to show glimpses of what he’s capable of at Premier League level but the focus will now be on securing a stage to do it on a consistent basis.

He has just 12 months left on his current contract and a reported €20million as his release clause. As a result, Deulofeu has certainly left the door open for a move to Vicarage Road after confirming that it’s one of his options this summer.

Watford are hoping to finalise a permanent deal for the Spanish winger before the start of the new season, after the World Cup. Parent club Barcelona will be looking to cash in on the player, given his lack of game time in the side.

They will be hoping to get as much value as they can out of the deal in order to fund the Antoine Griezmann move for themselves. Deulofeu made the loan switch in January and played a total of 5 games for the Hornets, scoring one goal in the process.

Javi Gracia will be looking to complete a deal for the Spanish attacker, given the lack of firepower in their side. Watford were struggling in front of goal towards the second half of the season, with their attack looking blunt in most games. New signing Richarlison started the season in impressive form, scoring 5 goals in the opening 12 gameweeks but blanked from there on.

Though he played just 5 games since his arrival, the Spanish attacker has averaged 1.1 shots per game and 1.6 key passes in the league. He also completed 2.4 dribbles per game and was only dispossessed an average once per game.

His pace and flair will surely cause opposition defenders a lot of trouble. Both Richarlison and Deulofeu could combine with Andre Gray to form a deadly partnership in front of goal, which is what Javi Gracia will be aiming to achieve next season.

It is vital that the Hornets sign a player who is capable of doing some damage in front of goal. The 24-year-old hasn’t been called up for the Spanish team this summer and can, therefore, join the Watford squad earlier than expected and enjoy a fruitful pre-season.

Captain Troy Deeney is way past his playing days and will require someone to take up the responsibility. Deulofeu could be the one to step forward and take his place.

While the young attacker enjoyed his loan spell at Vicarage Road, a move could prove complicated should another team with better financial resources come calling and offer a deal which could blow Watford out of the water.