Godwin ObajeEverton Closing in on Villarreal Striker Thierno Barry as Second Summer Signing Nears
Everton are edging closer to completing their second signing of the summer, with Villarreal striker Thierno Barry emerging as a priority target for the club’s recruitment team.
Talks have progressed significantly in recent days between the Merseyside outfit and the La Liga side, although no formal agreement has yet been reached. The 22-year-old forward, who has a £34 million release clause in his contract, is said to be open to the move—something that could play a key role in negotiations.
The Blues have already moved quickly this summer, confirming the permanent arrival of Carlos Alcaraz from Flamengo following his successful loan stint. The Argentine midfielder, instrumental in helping Sean Dyche’s side claim three wins in their final three matches of the 2024/25 season, joined in a £12.6 million deal earlier this summer.
Now attention has turned to strengthening the forward line, particularly after the departure of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and the limited impact of Youssef Chermiti since his arrival two years ago.
Villarreal Hold Out for Valuation
Sources in Spain suggest Villarreal are still hopeful of receiving a figure close to Barry’s full release clause. However, the club’s hierarchy has stopped short of ruling out a compromise, particularly if the French striker expresses a clear desire to leave.
The Yellow Submarine, aware of growing interest in their young forward, are treading carefully but understand that player power could shift the negotiations in Everton’s favour.
Barry, who represented France at U21 level in this summer’s UEFA European Under-21 Championship, is seen as a dynamic and versatile attacking option who would provide both cover and direct competition for Beto. The Portuguese striker remains Dyche’s primary No. 9 following Calvert-Lewin’s exit.
Bringing in Barry would align with Everton’s strategic intent to rebuild the squad with younger, athletic profiles, particularly those with resale potential and European pedigree.
Addressing Depth in Attack
While Chermiti remains a developmental prospect, his minimal first-team exposure since joining has prompted the club to move decisively for a more senior option to support Beto. The hope is that Barry can integrate quickly and offer immediate competition for the starting berth, rather than simply being a long-term project.
Should a deal be finalised, Barry would become Everton’s second addition of the window—a sign that the Friedkin Group’s takeover is already beginning to bring tangible results on the pitch.
Looking Ahead
Although the move is not yet complete, club sources are optimistic about reaching a resolution soon, given the momentum in talks and Barry’s openness to the transfer.
With pre-season preparations already underway, Everton are keen to have any new signings bedded in early. The pursuit of Barry is seen as part of a broader strategy to ensure Sean Dyche has the tools necessary to push the club into mid-table safety and avoid another season of relegation anxiety.
Should the deal go through in the coming days, it would be another strong signal of Everton’s intent to build a younger, more competitive side fit for the Premier League’s demands.
Godwin Obaje
