Everton boss Roberto Martinez has hinted that Gerard Deulofeu could stay at Goodison Park beyond this season.

The young Spaniard is on a season-long loan deal from Barcelona and is widely expected to return to Camp Nou at the end of the campaign.

However, Martinez has claimed that his compatriot could stay on Merseyside for next term.

The Liverpool Echo quotes him as saying: "The interview [Deulofeu gave] was on Catalan radio and the question was
'Would you like to play one day for the Barcelona first team?'

"The answer is going to be, as a Barcelona player who has been there since he was eight, yes, because that's his focus and wish for the future.

"But the interview does not imply he definitely will not remain here next season. He never said he's not enjoying his time at Everton. He has loved the test in the Premier League and being with us."

The Blues are currently seventh in the Premier League.