Villarreal striker Barry set for Everton medical

Everton Closing in on Thierno Barry Signing as £27m Deal Nears Completion

Everton appear to be on the verge of completing a major signing that could significantly bolster their attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season. According to reports, the Toffees are close to finalising a deal for Villarreal striker Thierno Barry, who is expected to arrive on Merseyside shortly to undergo a medical examination before putting pen to paper on a transfer worth around £27 million.

While the agreement is not yet officially sealed, negotiations between the two clubs are said to be progressing positively. Everton manager David Moyes is eager to wrap up the formalities and make Barry the club’s marquee signing of the summer window so far. The deal would represent Everton’s most significant financial outlay of the current transfer period.

Barry, 22, currently plays for La Liga side Villarreal and enjoyed an impressive 2024/25 campaign. He found the net 11 times and registered four assists across 38 appearances in all competitions, helping Villarreal secure a fifth-place finish in Spain’s top flight—earning them qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.

Though the French-born striker had a £34.5 million release clause written into his Villarreal contract, Everton are believed to have successfully negotiated a reduced fee, lowering the cost of the transfer by over £7 million.

Barry’s arrival would help fill the void left by former Everton frontman Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who departed the club upon the expiration of his contract earlier this summer. Additionally, Armando Broja has also exited the squad, returning to parent club Chelsea following the end of his loan spell at Goodison Park, with no permanent deal pursued.

The addition of Barry is expected to inject pace, physicality, and creativity into Everton’s forward line as Moyes looks to reshape his attack. Standing tall with a strong frame and good movement, the young forward is seen as a promising long-term asset who can make an immediate impact in the Premier League.

Born in Lyon, France, Barry began his professional journey with Sochaux but made a bold move abroad at the age of 19, joining Belgian second-tier outfit Beveren. His performances there quickly attracted attention, prompting a transfer to Swiss club FC Basel, where he further developed his skill set in the Super League. In August 2024, he made the switch to Villarreal for a reported £13 million and made a swift impression in Spain.

Now, barely a year later, Barry seems poised to take the next big step in his career by moving to England. Should the medical and final negotiations go smoothly, Everton fans can expect the announcement of the club’s newest striker in the coming days.