Everton in Advanced Talks for ‘Exciting’ Villarreal Striker Thierno Barry as Summer Transfer Plan Intensifies
Everton’s summer transfer window is beginning to gather momentum, with a clear focus on bolstering their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. After a frustrating start to their search for a new striker, the Toffees are now stepping up efforts to land Villarreal forward Thierno Barry — a player who has caught the eye of top scouts and is viewed as a rising star in European football.
According to TBR Football’s Chief Correspondent Graeme Bailey, Everton have now opened concrete talks with Barry’s representatives. Speaking to Everton News, Bailey confirmed that the Merseyside club has held discussions with the striker’s camp to not only express their serious interest but also explore what a potential deal would require.
Everton Eager to Secure New Attacking Firepower
The need for a new striker has become increasingly urgent for Everton, particularly with Dominic Calvert-Lewin likely to depart during this window. David Moyes, who has just returned to Premier League management with Everton under the club’s new owners — the Friedkin Group — is keen to add goal-scoring quality to his squad.
Although Everton do have Beto and Youssef Chermiti on the books, neither player has consistently delivered the firepower needed at the top level. Thus, the search for a proven yet youthful striker has become the top priority at Goodison Park.
Barry Emerging as a Primary Target
Thierno Barry, currently playing for La Liga side Villarreal, has emerged as a leading candidate to fill that crucial role. Reports suggest Everton are preparing a bid in the region of £33 million to secure the services of the 21-year-old forward, who has been praised as an “exciting” talent by prominent scout Jacek Kulig.
The Yellow Submarine are reluctant to sell, especially after qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. However, Everton’s increasing pressure and early conversations with Barry’s camp suggest that the Premier League club could soon win the race for his signature.
“Villarreal were hoping to keep him for at least another season, but that looks unlikely now,” Bailey said. “Everton have already spoken to his camp to confirm their interest and understand what would be required to bring him to England.”
Premier League Pull & New Stadium Hopes
While Barry is reportedly content at Villarreal, the lure of playing in the Premier League — combined with Everton’s ambitious new project — could sway his decision. The club hopes that the allure of their soon-to-be-completed stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, which represents a major leap forward in their long-term vision, will help attract top-tier talent this summer.
For Barry, the move would offer the chance to be a central figure in a rebuilding Premier League side and potentially become a talisman under Moyes. The opportunity to lead the line at a historic club in England may outweigh the guarantee of European football in Spain.
Early Setbacks and Transfer Competition
Everton’s transfer plans have not been without frustration. Earlier in the month, they were dealt a blow when Manchester City’s Liam Delap chose Chelsea over a move to Goodison Park. Additionally, Everton are now battling Chelsea again, this time for VfB Stuttgart forward Nick Woltemade — a player Everton had identified as another possible addition before Stuttgart insisted he would not be leaving.
The striker market is proving to be one of the most competitive areas of the transfer window, with clubs across Europe looking to strengthen their forward lines. For Everton, that has added pressure to move decisively and secure their preferred targets before rivals do.
A Defining Summer Under New Ownership
The Friedkin Group’s acquisition of Everton marks a new chapter for the club, and the upcoming transfer window is expected to be a busy one as they seek to reshape the squad. Carlos Alcaraz has already arrived on a permanent deal, but much more is required — especially in the attacking third.
Bringing in Thierno Barry would not only address the immediate need for goals but also signal a strong statement of intent from Everton’s new regime. With talks now underway and momentum building, a deal for the talented Villarreal striker is looking increasingly likely.