Everton have signed striker Joao Silva on a three-year deal from Portuguese second division side Desportivo Das Aves for an undisclosed fee.

A statement on Everton's website said officials had flown to Portugal to conclude the transfer.

Last season Silva, 20, was the second top scorer in the Liga Vitalis.

The 6ft 2in forward scored 14 goals in 32 appearances for Aves last season, his first campaign since graduating to the professional ranks at the club.

Silva has played for his country's under-20 side and is highly rated in his homeland.

He will now move to Merseyside before linking up with the Everton squad when they reconvene at the start of July for the pre-season tour to Australia.

Silva joined the youth system at Desportivo das Aves, situated near Oporto in the north of Portugal, at the age of 10.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version