If a report from Calciomercato is believed to be true, Everton are eyeing a winter swoop for Beto. But they are not alone in the hunt with Fiorentina, Napoli and Borussia Dortmund also keeping close tabs on the Udinese ‘number 9’.
Despite brief stints with Benfica and Oeiras, the 24-year-old Portuguese spent the majority of his youth years with amateurs URD Tires. There he earned a senior status before leaving for Olímpico Montijo in the third tier of Portugal. An impressive scoring streak saw him securing a Primeira Liga transfer with Portimonense back in the summer of 2019.
Meanwhile, Beto struggled for consistency at Portimonense, who accepted Udinese’s loan (with an obligation to buy) offer on the 2021 summer deadline day. The move proved to be a success as he went on to fire 11 goals in 28 Serie A appearances. The centre-forward has scored 6 league goals this season in 15 outings and his impact high up the pitch has drawn the attention of an array of European outfits.
The Toffees avoided a relegation scare late in the previous term. Frank Lampard roped in a few new names earlier this campaign, but their situation has not improved at all prior to the World Cup break. They are only one point clear of the drop zone and the gaffer must find a solution in January to revive their season.
Why Everton Must Get The Deal Done
Everton’s downfall is due to the lack of identity as well as a catastrophic transfer model over the past few years. They failed to keep hold of Richarlison who left for Tottenham Hotspur, whereas Dominic Calvert-Lewin is yet to regain his lost status amid persistent injury woes.
Neal Maupay was a late summer addition after falling down the pecking order at Brighton & Hove Albion. But he has found the net just once in 10 league games, which is indeed alarming for the Merseysiders. José Salomón Rondón offers a different kind of threat given his physical presence and directness. However, the 33-year-old Venezuelan is not an answer to their ongoing crisis with no goal so far in limited minutes.
Tying down Beto won’t be straightforward for Everton as his Udinese switch was made permanent only five months ago. He has flourished as a targetman depicting his aerial mastery, dribbling, finishing as well as counter-attacks, and it remains to be seen whether the Blues splash the cash to tie him down next month.
