Beto secures £17m Everton exit as Blues send parting message to forward
Beto secures £17m Everton exit as Blues send parting message

Beto has moved to Fiorentina in a deal worth around £17m. The forward arrived in Italy on Monday and underwent a medical before his move was signed off on Tuesday night.

His departure marks the end of an emotional stint on Merseyside - one in which his desire to do well for the club was always clear. Memorable moments include his tears after ending a goal drought with a stoppage-time equaliser against Fulham and his goals against Liverpool, whose defence he often caused problems.

Everton career highlights

Beto scored on his debut in a win over Doncaster Rovers in the Carabao Cup and opened his Premier League account with a thrilling solo goal to complete a 3-0 rout of Newcastle United at Goodison Park.

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The 28-year-old recorded 20 league goals in 99 appearances and scored in the last Merseyside derby at Goodison and the first at Hill Dickinson.

Reasons for departure

His departure was likely this summer, however, as Everton looked to strengthen up top. Beto typically hit form from late January to the spring but also endured long stints without a goal.

After entering the final 12 months of his deal this summer, and with Thierno Barry emerging as David Moyes’ first-choice striker, a move away appeared inevitable and he returns to Serie A, where he previously played for Udinese.

Replacement plans

Everton are working towards a deal to sign US forward Folarin Balogun as his replacement.

Upon his departure, Everton said: “Everyone connected with Everton thanks Beto for his dedication, commitment and service throughout his time at the club and wishes him all the best for the next chapter of his career in Italy.”

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