Everton are close to agreeing the sale of striker Beto to Serie A's Fiorentina for a fee in the area of £15 million. The Portuguese forward, 28, is due to undergo a medical in Italy on Monday, as reported by ESPN Soccer, marking a significant shift in Everton's attacking ranks ahead of Tuesday's transfer deadline.
The Toffees begin this period of change from a position of strength on the pitch. They occupy sixth place in the Premier League with four points from their opening two matches, boasting a goal difference of +2. Sitting just two points behind Manchester City, their next test is a home game against 10th-placed Manchester United on September 6th.
Why is Everton selling Beto now?
Beto arrived at Goodison Park from Udinese in 2023 for a fee believed to be around £25 million. He went on to score 25 times in 113 appearances for the club. His impending move to Florence represents a substantial financial loss on that initial outlay. Manager David Moyes recently spoke about the complex dynamics of transfer decisions, acknowledging fan influence. "I think you always have to consider supporters; supporters aren't always wrong," Moyes stated. "But then there's also times where I've had people at clubs who are really powerful and make difficult decisions."
Everton's solid start provides a buffer, but the departure of a senior striker creates an immediate need. This is compounded by the absence of midfielder Christian Nørgaard, adding to the importance of smart recruitment in the coming days.
Which strikers are Everton targeting?
Everton's interest has turned to United States forward Folarin Balogun. However, a move for the Monaco player is reportedly conditional on the club completing sales before the window closes. The situation could expand if Iliman Ndiaye also departs, with the Senegalese attacker linked to Tottenham Hotspur. In that scenario, the club might look to bring in both Balogun and a familiar face in Richarlison.
Richarlison's future has been a topic of speculation, with Roberto De Zerbi noting, "Richarlison, I don't know. He said too many times he wants to leave." This leaves Everton with a clear but urgent task: to identify and secure a new goal threat to maintain their promising early momentum. The current squad list is available on our squad page.
How does this sale affect the deadline day strategy?
The expected £15 million from Beto's transfer provides Everton with necessary capital for final-week deals. This income must be strategically deployed to not only replace the outgoing striker but potentially strengthen other areas. The club's decision-makers are under pressure to act swiftly following vocal fan reactions to other rumoured moves, such as the chants against a potential Harrison Armstrong transfer to Nottingham Forest.
With the deadline fast approaching, Everton's activity will be crucial in determining whether they can sustain their positive start to the season. Their current league standing, which you can follow on our standings page, shows a team with potential that now needs reinforcing.
