Rumour: Everton close in on season-long loan deal for Barcelona’s Cristian Tello

According to the Express, Everton have entered negotiations with Barcelona over a potential season-long loan deal for Liverpool target Cristian Tello.

Spanish media outlet Mundo Deportivo understand that Roberto Martinez has corresponded with Barca executives over a similar deal to that which saw Gerard Deulofeu join the Toffees last season.

Everton face competition for the 22-year-old Spanish forward from six others clubs, although the La Liga giants are said to be delighted by the way Deulofeu developed under Martinez’s tutelage, which works to the Premier League club’s advantage.

Martinez’s knack for cultivating young talent has become increasingly manifest in the last few campaigns, with the likes of James McCarthy, Ross Barkley and John Stones coming on leaps and bounds with the Spaniard’s guidance.

Elsewhere, Manchester United are said to be leading Chelsea in the pursuit of burgeoning talent Ross Barkley.

In saying that, Martinez stated last month that Everton won’t be entertaining any approaches for the 20-year-old midfielder.

“I would not sell even if we got a huge bid. It would be wrong for him.

“I always feel as manager you develop a relationship with players and you’re always honest with that.

Cristian Tello made only two starts for Barcelona in La Liga last season.