Bournemouth have made a high-profile splash in the transfer market by signing Brazilian striker Evanilson from FC Porto, setting a new club record with a £40.2 million deal. This transfer not only surpasses the previous record but also demonstrates the Cherries' intent to significantly strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new season.
Evanilson, who is just 24 years old, has been a standout performer in Portugal's top tier. Over four seasons at Porto, he accumulated an impressive tally of 60 goals in 154 appearances. His sharp finishing and consistent scoring ability were evident last season when he scored 25 goals across all competitions, including crucial strikes in the Champions League.
The deal involves an initial fee of £31.7 million, with an additional £8.5 million potentially payable based on performance-related clauses. This structure reflects Bournemouth’s confidence in Evanilson’s ability to make an immediate impact and contribute significantly to the team’s goalscoring efforts.
Neill Blake, Bournemouth’s chief executive, expressed his excitement about the new signing. “Evanilson is a hugely sought-after striker and for us to bring him to the club in a record-breaking deal shows our ambition and intent,” Blake said. He emphasized that Evanilson’s goal-scoring record, combined with his youth and potential, aligns perfectly with Bournemouth’s strategic goals.
Evanilson's international credentials add another layer of prestige to his transfer. He earned his first cap for Brazil earlier this year and was part of the squad for the Copa America. Although he saw limited action in Brazil’s quarter-final defeat to Uruguay, his inclusion in the national team reflects his growing prominence in Brazilian football.
The striker will assume the number nine shirt at Bournemouth, which was previously worn by Dominic Solanke. Solanke’s departure to Tottenham, in a deal valued up to £65 million, left a significant void in Bournemouth’s forward line. Evanilson is expected to fill this gap with his goal-scoring prowess and bring a new dynamic to the team’s attack.
Evanilson’s transfer aligns with Bournemouth’s broader strategy of reinforcing their squad to enhance their performance in the Premier League. The club's investment in the Brazilian striker underscores their commitment to achieving better results and making a stronger push in the league.
The signing also reflects Bournemouth’s broader ambition to compete at a higher level and make a mark in English football. With Evanilson’s proven goal-scoring record and experience at a top European club, the Cherries are well-positioned to build on their recent progress and aim for a successful season.
As Bournemouth prepares for the new campaign, the addition of Evanilson represents a significant boost to their attacking options and demonstrates their readiness to compete at the highest level of English football. The record-breaking transfer highlights the club’s proactive approach in the transfer market and their determination to achieve their ambitions.
