Report: Everton Face Unexpected Setback in Pursuit of Villarreal Striker Thierno Barry

 

Everton are edging closer to securing the services of promising Villarreal forward Thierno Barry, but a sudden complication has emerged that could delay the completion of the deal. After weeks of cautious optimism, Toffees supporters were beginning to feel hopeful about the club’s progress in the summer transfer window—but an unforeseen bureaucratic hurdle now stands in the way.

 

New manager David Moyes, who recently took over from Sean Dyche, is understood to be fully backing the move as he seeks to reshape the squad in his image ahead of the new Premier League campaign. It’s been a slow start to the summer for Everton under their new ownership group led by the Friedkin family, with fans growing anxious over the lack of fresh faces at Finch Farm. The potential arrival of Barry, therefore, is being viewed as a crucial first step in what needs to be a transformative window.

 

The need for attacking reinforcements has only grown more urgent following the departure of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who recently left the club after years of leading the line. Everton are prioritising forward options to avoid the goal-scoring struggles that plagued them in recent seasons, and Barry is seen as a dynamic and exciting addition to help fill that void.

 

Deal Nearly Complete—But One Obstacle Remains

 

Negotiations between Everton and Villarreal have been ongoing for some time, with both clubs believed to be close to agreeing on terms for the 21-year-old striker. Despite Villarreal being able to offer Champions League football next season—a significant draw for most young players—Barry is reportedly keen on a move to Merseyside and is eager to test himself in the Premier League.

 

However, according to the latest report from Spanish outlet AS, the proposed transfer is currently being held up by what are described as bureaucratic complications. The exact nature of the issue has not been disclosed, but it could relate to work permit procedures, contract structuring, or final approval from league authorities. Nonetheless, sources indicate that the deal is in its final stages and should still go through if the remaining red tape can be resolved swiftly.

 

Coincidence in Miami: Barry and Moyes Both in the Sunshine State

 

Adding a curious subplot to the transfer story is the fact that both Barry and Everton boss David Moyes are currently in Miami. Barry is enjoying a well-earned holiday in the United States after competing in the Under-21 European Championship, and he recently posted a photo at an airport check-in desk on his Instagram story, confirming his travel.

 

Coincidentally, Moyes is also in Miami, having been based in Florida over the past few weeks while taking in several matches from the FIFA Club World Cup. Although there is no official word of a meeting between the two, speculation is growing over whether Moyes may use the opportunity to connect with Barry face-to-face and reinforce Everton’s pitch for his signature.

 

Such a personal interaction could prove valuable, particularly with Moyes known for placing importance on building relationships with young players. Even if the Miami overlap is purely coincidental, it’s not hard to imagine the 62-year-old Scot taking advantage of the moment to check in with a potential new signing.

 

Everton Fans Eager for First Major Signing

 

Supporters will be hoping that the administrative issues holding up the deal are resolved quickly, allowing Barry to be unveiled as Everton’s first signing of the summer. With the preseason period just around the corner, time is of the essence for Moyes to integrate new additions into his squad.

 

Barry’s arrival would signal a shift in Everton’s transfer strategy under Moyes and the Friedkin regime—targeting youthful talent with high potential rather than solely relying on experienced Premier League veterans. It would also send a clear message that the club is ready to move forward after a period of instability and underachievement.

 

For now, all eyes remain on Miami and Merseyside as Everton look to push the Barry deal over the line—and officially kick off their summer rebuild.