Bournemouth Signs Evanilson for Record Fee from Porto

LONDON (AP) — Bournemouth is on the verge of finalizing a significant transfer deal for Brazilian striker Evanilson, reportedly costing the club around £40 million ($51.6 million). The 24-year-old forward, who scored 13 league goals for Porto last season and impressed with a hat trick in the Champions League, has already arrived in England and completed his medical examinations. Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola confirmed that while the player is in the country, there are still procedural steps to complete before the transfer is officially announced. Evanilson's acquisition comes as a direct response to the recent departure of Dominic Solanke, who transferred to Tottenham for a reported £65 million. The Brazilian is expected to fill the void left by Solanke as Bournemouth prepares for their season opener against Nottingham Forest this Saturday. Evanilson, who made his Brazil debut in June, has been recognized for his impressive performance at Porto, where he netted 25 goals across all competitions last season. In addition to Bournemouth's move, other Premier League clubs are also active in the transfer market. Brighton has confirmed the signing of Brajan Gruda from Mainz for £25 million and is pursuing Leeds forward Georginio Rutter after activating his release clause. Meanwhile, Bournemouth had previously considered Arsenal's Eddie Nketiah as a potential replacement for Solanke before settling on Evanilson. As Bournemouth gears up for the new season, the club is optimistic that Evanilson's arrival will bolster their attacking options and enhance their competitiveness in the Premier League.