Everton Set to Activate €40m Release Clause for Villarreal Striker Thierno Barry Amid Striker Search
Everton are reportedly prepared to make a bold move in the summer transfer market by activating the €40 million release clause for Villarreal striker Thierno Barry, as the Merseyside club seeks to bolster its attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, the Toffees are eager to land the talented French forward and view him as a prime target in light of growing uncertainty surrounding the future of long-time striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin. With the Englishman expected to depart on a free transfer and speculation mounting about a potential move away, Everton are now looking for a fresh, dynamic option to lead the line in the club’s new era—particularly as they prepare to move into their much-anticipated new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.
David Moyes Targets New No. 9
New Everton manager David Moyes, returning for his second stint at the club, has made it clear that signing a centre-forward is one of the club’s top priorities this summer. With Beto already part of the squad, Moyes is keen on adding another physical, aerially dominant striker—someone who fits the mold of a traditional target man to replace or complement Calvert-Lewin’s presence in the final third.
Everton were previously linked with Liam Delap, a rising star who ultimately opted to join Chelsea. They have also been monitoring Nick Woltemade of VfB Stuttgart, a young German striker who fits the profile Moyes is after—tall, strong, and capable of playing as a focal point in attack.
Thierno Barry’s Breakout Season Draws Premier League Interest
Among Everton’s shortlist of targets, 21-year-old Thierno Barry has emerged as one of the most compelling options. The French striker, who joined Villarreal from Swiss side FC Basel for €15 million just a year ago, enjoyed a standout 2024/25 campaign in La Liga. He notched an impressive 23 goal contributions across all competitions—an output that hasn’t gone unnoticed by top clubs across Europe.
Barry’s combination of physicality, clinical finishing, and link-up play has made him one of the most exciting young attacking prospects in Spain. At 6’4”, he offers the kind of physical threat that fits seamlessly into Moyes’ tactical system. Moreover, reports suggest that the striker is interested in a move to the Premier League, making Everton’s approach all the more feasible.
Everton Ready to Trigger Barry’s Release Clause
Crucially, Villarreal are not looking to enter drawn-out negotiations over Barry. The Spanish club have made it clear that they will only sanction a transfer if Barry’s €40 million release clause is paid in full, up front. This firm stance has narrowed the pool of potential buyers—but Everton appear willing to meet the demand.
Sources indicate that the Toffees are prepared to trigger the clause and are considering formalizing their interest in the coming days. While talks between the two clubs and the player’s representatives have yet to begin, Everton are expected to move swiftly, especially if they face competition from other clubs in need of a striker.
Should they complete the deal, it would mark one of the most ambitious and expensive transfers of the club’s recent history—signaling a statement of intent as Everton aim to push back into the Premier League’s top half.
A New Era at Everton
The pursuit of Barry aligns with the broader vision at Goodison Park under new leadership. With a new stadium on the horizon, fresh managerial direction under David Moyes, and increased ambition in the transfer market, Everton are clearly looking to put their recent relegation battles behind them.
Securing a high-potential forward like Barry could be the cornerstone of a revitalized attack—one capable of restoring Everton’s competitive edge in English football. While there are still several hurdles to clear, including potential competition from other clubs and the logistics of a large cash payment, the Toffees are believed to be seriously weighing up the move.
If Everton act decisively, Thierno Barry could be one of the first marquee signings to usher in the next chapter of the club’s proud history.