The Dark Horse XI of the upcoming EPL season - players who can turn the fortunes of their teams

8) Gerard Deulofeu (Everton)

Gerard Deulofeu (R) – the next Messi?

The La Masia wonder kid, touted as the next Lionel Messi, is certainly the cream of the blue Merseyside crop. Gerard Deulofue had been a part of Barcelona youth ranks from past nine years, and his senior debut came at the age of 17.

Developed mainly as a left inside forward, Deulofue exhibits a range of attacking versatility, being able to play at either flanks and as a trequartista. His speed on and off the ball, dribbling, creativity and an eye for goal set him apart.

Scoring 18 goals in the 2012-13 season, he ended up as fourth joint top-scorer in the Segunda division. Is he the heir to a certain mesmerizing Argentinian at the Blaugrana? Only time will tell.