Everton sign Turkey international defender Tosun in 36 mln USD deal

LONDON -- English Premier League club Everton Friday night signed Turkey international Cenk Tosun in a deal worth 36.6 million US dollars.

The signing was confirmed by the club as it met city rivals Liverpool in a crucial FA cup clash at Anfield.

Tosun, who has signed a four-and-a-half year deal with Everton, was described by the club's manager Sam Allardyce as the best in Europe at that price.

"This lad looks like he is strong mentally and has a good pedigree," said Allardyce.

Tosun, who has joined Everton from Besiktas, and has been capped 25 times for his country, said he is eager to be involved in Everton's next Premier League game, against London club Tottenham on January 13.

In an interview with EvertonTV, Tosun said: "It feels great to be an Everton player. I'm really happy to be here and happy that everything is done. I'm really excited to play for Everton as soon as possible. Everton is a great club with a big history and a big culture and I'm looking forward to showing the fans the kind of player I am."

Allardyce described the signing, his first as Everton manager, as a massive boost for the club.

"He is Turkey's number one striker and has scored goals in the Champions League and the Turkish League. I don't think you can look any more than we have done and, for the price, this is the best in Europe at the moment," said the manager.