Australian international forward becomes Everton’s latest big signing

Everton have completed the surprise signing of Australian international forward Hayley Raso from Brisbane Roar for an undisclosed fee according to BBC Sport.

The 25-year-old Brisbane-born attacker is expected to link up with The Blue Girls towards the end of next month after representing Australia in the Olympic qualifiers.

Raso started her career with Canberra United before returning home to sign for Brisbane Roar. Spells playing in America with Washington Spirit and Portland Thorns followed, although the forward was never too far away from home with Raso being loaned out to Australian side Melbourne Victory and former clubs Canberra United and Brisbane Roar.

The player returned to Brisbane Roar on a permanent basis last year but will now test herself at FA Women’s Super League level with latest club Everton. It is thought that Raso could make her debut for The Blue Girls against Manchester United on 23 February.

Raso’s senior international career with Australia started with an appearance in a 1-1 draw with New Zealand in summer 2012 and the player has since gone on to collect 40 caps. She has netted three goals for her country which most recently included a goal in a 2-0 victory over New Zealand in the 2019 Cup of Nations in February last year.