Everton make last-gasp transfer decision on Beto as deadline dooms, approach made from elsewhere
Beto now looks set to stay at Everton.
The striker has been incredibly poor this season, and David Moyes was desperate for more quality in attack.
A move for Youssef En-Nesyri failed, and as the winter transfer window continued, it seemed increasingly likely that the Toffees wouldn’t be able to replace Beto.
He had been linked with a move away from the Hill Dickinson Stadium, with Juventus being one of the teams that were firmly interested.
After scoring a 97th-minute equaliser against Brighton on Saturday, the 28-year-old will likely remain in L4 for the rest of the campaign.
Everton firmly against letting Beto leave before transfer deadline
Beto potentially saved his Everton career with his goal at the AMEX, and Moyes’ side have made a U-turn on his future.
The Athletic’s David Ornstein reported that the Toffees are now not open to letting the Guinea-Bissau international leave before the transfer deadline at 7:00pm on 2 February
A significant fee would be required, and it seems implausible that they would be able to secure a better replacement in such a short time.
The Toffees also made an enquiry for Juventus winger Edon Zhegrova, although that move did not develop.
Everton were only keen on letting Beto leave permanently, and rejected any loan approaches that came their way.
The Kosovo international was subjected to interest from the Toffees in the summer transfer window, although it’s clear that the Italian giants wouldn’t consider letting him leave in a swap deal.
However, it now looks certain that Beto will have another six months to prove himself to the Hill Dickinson faithful.
Beto staying at Everton is brilliant news for Thierno Barry
It’s clear that despite his lack of quality, Beto holds Everton close to his heart.
With Thierno Barry ahead of him in the pecking order, Beto looks set to continue being his understudy.
For the young French striker, this is perfect news.
He has been on a good run of form, scoring four times in his last seven games.
| Season | Goals scored |
| 2025-26 | 4 |
| 2024-25 | 10 |
| 2023-24 | 6 |
| 2022-23 | 10 |
| 2021-22 | 11 |
It’s understandable that the 23-year-old took some time to adapt to the Premier League, and he has developed into a dangerous threat up front.
If a new signing came in, such as En-Nesyri, then Barry would have dropped down to the bench, and it could have harmed his confidence.
With Beto staying put, Barry has until the end of the season to show Moyes why he should be the number one forward for many years to come.
Otherwise, Everton will definitely be aiming to signing a better striker in the summer.
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