Fiorentina look to Beto for attacking boost after Everton departure

Fiorentina have completed the signing of Everton striker Beto, with the Italian club confirming on Tuesday that the Guinea-Bissau international has joined for a fee estimated at €18m.

The 28-year-old, whose full name is Norberto Bercique Gomes Betuncal, arrives in Florence to lead the Viola’s attack after three seasons with Everton. Fiorentina have not disclosed the length of the contract agreed with their new centre-forward.

Beto is expected to give Fiorentina a more powerful presence in the final third, while also bringing experience of English football to the squad. The club are counting on his physical qualities and goalscoring ability to improve the effectiveness of their attack.

He leaves Everton after joining the Toffees in the summer of 2023. During his time at the club, the former number nine made 113 appearances, scoring 25 goals and providing three assists.

The move represents a fresh stage in Beto’s career as he returns to Italy, where he will now attempt to establish himself as a key figure for Fiorentina. His arrival gives the club another option in an attacking area that they believe requires greater strength and efficiency.

Fiorentina’s next league fixture will come against Torino FC in the third round of the Italian championship. Ahead of that match, betting company 1xbet listed Torino FC at odds of 4.20 to win, with a draw priced at 3.30 and Fiorentina offered at 1.82.

Beto’s transfer was confirmed before that meeting, adding an immediate point of interest to the fixture as Fiorentina prepare to introduce their new striker. The club have announced the player’s arrival and the reported transfer fee, but have not provided further details about the contract’s duration.

For Everton, the departure brings an end to Beto’s three-year spell in England. His record of 25 goals in 113 matches means he leaves having made a significant number of appearances for the Toffees, while Fiorentina will hope the forward can translate his experience into a stronger attacking contribution in Italy.

The Guinea-Bissau international now begins his new chapter with the Viola, who have secured his services in a deal reported to be worth €18m.