Villarreal's Thierno Barry in action with Real Madrid's Federico Valverde. (REUTERS/Susana Vera)
Everton ended the 2024/25 season on a high note following the January return of David Moyes as manager, losing just four of their 18 Premier League matches under the Scotsman.
The impressive turnaround not only secured their Premier League status but also sparked renewed optimism ahead of a landmark moment in the club’s history — their move to the new 52,888-seater Everton Stadium this summer.
Still, Moyes will be keen to bolster his squad during the transfer window, particularly in attack.
While Everton were solid defensively — thanks in part to standout performances from James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite — they struggled to find the net consistently. No player managed to reach double digits in Premier League goals.
Iliman Ndiaye finished as their top scorer with nine, while Beto managed eight — five of which came during a hot streak in February.
Everton Learn Thierno Barry Price
Addressing their lack of firepower is expected to be a top priority, and one name on Everton’s radar is Villarreal striker Thierno Barry.
The 22-year-old Frenchman, who is also attracting interest from Chelsea, had an outstanding season in Spain, scoring 19 goals in all competitions and playing a key role in Villarreal’s fifth-place La Liga finish — securing Champions League football for 2025/26.
According to TEAMtalk, Everton are interested in bringing Barry to Merseyside and have learned the cost of a potential deal. Villarreal, while keen to keep him, are reportedly willing to consider offers close to his £33.6 million release clause. Barry is under contract until 2029, having only joined from FC Basel last summer for £12.5 million.
Villarreal sporting director Miguel Ángel Ten praised Barry last year, saying: “”Barry is a player who gives us options in the air, both defending and attacking, who plays well with his back to goal and who stands out for his ability in front of goal. He is young, but very important for us for the club’s identity.”
If Everton can meet the asking price, they’ll be hoping Barry can bring his sharp instincts and physical presence to their new home and help fire them to a more comfortable campaign in 2025/26.
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