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Everton leave it late to complete deal for Oumar Niasse

Senegal striker signs on at Goodison Park

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Everton have confirmed the deadline day signing of striker Oumar Niasse from Lokomotiv Moscow for £13.5m on a four-and-a-half year contract.

Senegal striker Niasse becomes Everton's third most expensive signing in the club's history, nudging just ahead of James McCarthy and behind only Marouane Fellaini and Romelu Lukaku in the rankings.

The 25-year-old will fill the gap vacated by Steven Naismith, who left for Norwich in a £8.5m deal earlier this transfer window.

Known for his explosive power and pace, Niasse will provide valuable cover for top-scorer Lukaku as well as being able to play alongside the Belgian, giving Roberto Martinez some valuable options in the offensive positions.

Niasse was voted Russian Player of the Year in 2015 and has scored 12 goals in 21 league games so far this season, with his performances attracting the attention of  a number of Premier League sides.

Everton moved quickly to seal the deal though, with a bid being lodged over the weekend. That bid was accepted earlier today with Niasse travelling to Finch Farm to discuss terms and undergo a medical.

After completing his move to Goodison Park, Niasse said:

"It’s a great day for me, a big dream to play in the Premier League and a big dream to play for Everton.

"Everton is one of the best teams in the Premier League and the Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world.

"I know Everton is one of the big clubs here in England with history, the fans and the great players, so I’m very excited and happy to be here.

"I started to watch Everton more since the beginning of October because I had heard about their interest.

"I was interested to see how they play and how they have good young players. If you see players who are aged 20 or 21 and see them perform like that, you know you have a good coach.

"The manager has said exactly what he wants. He believes I can be a player who can add something to the team. It was not difficult to talk and understand one another. You can see also that he is a good person and I am really looking forward to playing for my new team."