Everton Plot Double Striker Signing as Moyes Eyes Callum Wilson and Thierno Barry to Revamp Attack
Everton are reportedly preparing a bold double move in the summer transfer window, with an ambitious plan to bring in Newcastle United veteran Callum Wilson and Villarreal’s rising star Thierno Barry, as manager David Moyes looks to reshape the club’s attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 season.
According to The Sun, the Toffees have shown serious interest in signing Wilson, a proven Premier League striker who is out of contract this summer at St James’ Park. The Magpies opted not to trigger the one-year extension clause in the 33-year-old’s £110,000-a-week deal, although discussions are reportedly ongoing regarding a potential contract renewal on reduced wages.
Despite those talks, no agreement has yet been reached, leaving the door open for interested clubs like Everton to swoop in.
Moyes Targeting Experience and Depth
After steering Everton to mid-table safety following a rocky start to the 2024/25 campaign under Sean Dyche, Moyes is determined to build a squad in his own image. The experienced boss sees Wilson as an ideal short-term option to provide goals, depth, and experience up front—particularly with the expected departure of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the month.
Should Calvert-Lewin move on, Everton would be left with Portuguese striker Beto as their only established centre-forward. Bringing in Wilson would not only add much-needed cover but also offer a mentor figure for younger players, given his decade-long record of consistent Premier League performances for both Bournemouth and Newcastle.
Wilson’s future remains uncertain, with Saudi Arabian clubs also monitoring his situation, but Everton’s need and Premier League pedigree could prove persuasive if the financial terms align.
Thierno Barry Also on Everton’s Radar
However, Wilson isn’t the only striker on Moyes’ wishlist. The Toffees are also pursuing a move for highly-rated French prospect Thierno Barry, currently making waves at the Under-21 European Championships. Barry has caught the attention of scouts across Europe with his blend of pace, technique, and intelligence in front of goal.
Everton reportedly consider Barry a “leading target”, with the club eager to invest in a forward who could develop into a long-term solution. But the path to signing him is more complicated—his club Villarreal are reluctant to part with the 21-year-old and are demanding a hefty £40 million fee to sanction any deal.
While that valuation poses a challenge for Everton, especially under their current financial constraints, the Toffees are exploring creative structures that could include add-ons or staged payments. Regardless, the club appears seriously committed to securing at least one major attacking addition before the new season begins.
A Two-Pronged Plan
Ideally, Moyes would like to sign both Wilson and Barry, giving the team a balanced mix of proven quality and youthful potential in the striking department. That move could also free up space for Youssef Chermiti—the young forward signed last year—to go out on loan and gain valuable first-team experience elsewhere.
Wilson, available on a free transfer, represents a cost-effective option despite concerns over his injury history, while Barry would be a significant investment with potential long-term upside.
The dual pursuit signals Everton’s intention to be decisive and ambitious in the summer window. Backed by a refreshed leadership structure and new ownership under the Friedkin Group, Moyes is being empowered to reshape a squad that has lacked consistency and firepower in recent seasons.
As the transfer window heats up, Everton’s approach to the striker situation could prove pivotal in determining the club’s prospects for the upcoming campaign.