Hunt is on for Samuel Eto’o replacement

Sampdoria have again gone public on their intentions to wrap up a deal for Samuel Eto’o this transfer window.

Negotiations have seemingly been going on for the past few weeks between Everton and the Italian club, though the Toffees have been reluctant to divulge much detail.

Roberto Martinez was moved to play down talk of an imminent transfer earlier this week, saying that the club would make a decision over the next fortnight.

In response, Sampdoria have said a deal is in place and the only thing holding up the move is Everton’s hunt for a replacement.

Any new striker is likely to be a loan, though with Eto’o's significant cost off the wage bill there may even be some room for more than one player.

New faces are certainly needed though, just to freshen things up if anything else. The team is in a rut with morale seemingly at rock bottom.

A few new signings could help rejuvenate the side, even if that means the departure of a player we were all so excited to see sign on at Goodison just a few months ago.

Sampdoria’s sporting director Carlo Osti Osti is quoted as telling Sky Italia:

"Our agreement with Eto’o has almost been finalised. He wants to join Sampdoria, those are his intentions.

"He is currently negotiating with Everton to resolve his contract with them. Everton are looking for a replacement.

"It might take a day more than expected, but we are moderately optimistic on Eto’o and hope he can arrive as soon as possible.

"I think Eto’o is a player of great character who can only help this group of mature players grow even more."