Samuel Eto'o represents shrewd business for Sampdoria

Sampdoria could be pulling off a masterstroke in signing Everton striker Samuel Eto’o.

The Cameroon veteran only arrived in Merseyside from Chelsea back in the summer, but has now left Roberto Martinez’s side in favour of a return to Serie A.

Despite his powers having somewhat lessened with age, he remains a goal-poacher of the highest calibre and could have a big say as to where the Italian club finish come the end of the season in May.

LETHAL LEGEND

Wherever the club or whatever colour the jersey, Eto’o has always been regarded as one of the most consistent strikers in world football. In a career spanning from Majorca to Merseyside, his imminent move to Sampdoria could be his final swan-song.

And it would be a fitting way to end his illustrious career. When the day comes where his boots are finally hung up and discarded, he will bow out as a legend of the game, a name to be spoken about for many years to come.

After starting out at Real Madrid and shining at Real Mallorca, his big move to Barcelona ignited his career and saw him win three La Liga titles and the Champions League twice under the stewardship of Frank Rijkaard and Pep Guardiola.

However he then left in 2009 for a new challenge with Inter Milan, in a deal that saw Zlatan Ibrahimovic head to the Nou Camp in return. His first season at the club was hugely successful, with the Cameroonian helping deliver the treble that propelled Jose Mourinho into footballing folklore.

A move to Anzhi in Russia looked to have prematurely started a decline, but at Chelsea last year he still managed 12 goals in all competitions before being offloaded to Goodison Park to make room for the likes of Diego Costa, Loic Remy and Didier Drogba.

SHREWD MOVE

Sampdoria are currently high-flying and trail third-placed Lazio on goal difference in the hunt for the third and final Champions League slot.

Juventus are now seven points clear having won 15 of their 20 league games, with Rudi Garcia’s Roma facing the runners-up slot for the second season in succession. His old club Inter were beaten 1-0 by Torino and already look likely to miss out on European football in Roberto Mancini’s first season back at the helm.

Signing Eto’o could be a fantastic piece of business. His experience, coupled with his eye for goal and hunger for success, may coax the best from within and give him the fairytale ending to his stunning and illustrious career.

One thing that is guaranteed is goals. Goals with the left foot, goals with the right, and goals with his head. Sampdoria will be hoping it is his goals that make the difference and complete one of the most spectacular seasons in recent memory.