Everton have completed the signing of Nigeria international forward Toni Payne.
Payne joins Everton after a six-year spell in Spain with Sevilla and is the first signing of the summer for the English side.
Speaking on Evertontv, the 29-year-old said she is super excited to be an Everton player, and it has been her dream to play in the UK and in such a strong league like the Women Soccer League (WSL).
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to play at a club like Everton with so much history in football.
“Now was the right moment for me to look for another challenge to push myself.
“It’s going to be different and new, and I’m really happy about my decision.”
Payne, who has 21 caps for Nigeria, was part of the Super Falcons squad that featured at the 2023 World Cup finals in Australia and New Zealand, being narrowly beaten by England on penalty shootout in the last 16.
She says her experience of playing against some of the best talent in the English top-flight only added her desire to move to Merseyside.
“I’m impressed with how the league is investing in teams and the league itself,” she continued.
READ ALSO: Most Stylish Uniforms At The 2024 Paris Olympics
“I see such a rapid growth and it’s something that I’m really excited and eager to be a part of.”
During that World Cup campaign, Nigeria went up against the Republic of Ireland and competed against two of Payne’s new Blues teammates in Heather Payne and Courtney Brosnan.
Payne says the opportunity to development further under the guidance of manager Sorensen is something that excites her.
“You can see just how much the players are growing here at Everton,” she added.
“I think this is going to be a great fit for me because that’s what I want. I want to grow, I want to improve, and this is the perfect place for me to achieve that.
“I’m impressed with the way we play. I think it fits my style and how I want to play. I cannot wait to get started.”
Payne is currently with the Super Falcons squad who are preparing for this summer’s Paris Olympics.
