Everton sign Tarashaj and loan him back to Grasshoppers

Shani Tarashaj: Signed until June 2010

Shani Tarashaj: Signed until June 2010

Everton have completed the signing of Grasshopper Club Zurich striker Shani Tarashaj on a four-and-a-half-year deal.

The 20-year-old Swiss Under-21 starlet, who has been loaned back to the Swiss side for the remainder of the season, has scored eight goals in 18 games for the Zurich club this season.

Tarashaj, who is believed to have cost Everton around £3million, will be able to complete his national service before he joins up with Everton in the summer.

Roberto Martinez told the club’s website: “Shani is an enormous young talent in Swiss football who, without a doubt, will have a great future. We’re delighted to have found a young player who believes that our Club is the perfect step for him to enhance his quality and to grow his career.

“He fits in really well to our style and the way we want to play the game. He is a family boy, hungry and he is desperate to fight for his place in our talented young squad.

“I’m delighted we have been able to act quickly and secure the deal for Shani which means that, due to his national service commitments, he will be able to be part of our first team squad from next season.

“Grasshopper have been very professional and the deal has been conducted in an exemplary way.”

Tarashaj told Evertontv: “It is a dream for me to sign here at Everton. I am proud and so happy to be here.”