New Everton signing Moise Kean has insisted his move to England was not influenced by the racist abuse he suffered in Italy.
Kean joined the Toffees from Juventus in a deal thought to be worth around £25m, and some claimed he had seeked a move away from his native country due to an incident which saw him taunted with racist chants during a game against Cagliari in April.
But Kean said it had no bearing on his decision, and that he is simply attracted by the ambition of the club.
When asked about the claims at his unveiling at Everton 's Finch Farm training facility, Kean said: "No, there is no connection. I like Everton and I like the Premier League. That is why I am here.
"I recognise myself in this team. Everton are looking ahead to the future and so am I, which is why I say I recognise myself in this team.”
The racist taunting took place after Kean celebrated a goal for Juventus against Cagliari, and his team-mate Leonardo Bonucci drew criticism by claiming Kean "could have done it differently", with the blame being "50-50".
Kean said: “I didn’t pay any attention to that comment. I was concentrating strongly on playing to the best of my ability, so I could repay Juventus for the support they gave me. That was my position.
“I spoke with Bonucci later and he apologised. He told me he was wrong and that he didn’t know what he was talking about.”
Everton supporters will welcome their new signing with a banner which will also support his fight against racism, with fans set to display it ahead of their match at Goodison Park against Sheffield United on September 21.
Kean added: “It’s beautiful because racism is horrendous and we have to fight against it. I’m going to repay the fans for all they do for me.
“It makes me even more motivated to repay them and I am going to give 100 per cent of my ability on the pitch.”
