Thierno Barry Joins Everton in £27.5 Million Deal After Stellar Villarreal Season
Everton Seals Major Signing Ahead of Premier League Campaign
Everton has officially completed the signing of promising French striker Thierno Barry from Spanish side Villarreal, finalizing a deal worth approximately £27.5 million (around €40 million including add-ons) after the player successfully passed his medicals in Liverpool. The 22-year-old forward has committed to a four-year contract that will keep him at Goodison Park until June 2029, signaling Everton’s strong intent to bolster their attacking options for the upcoming Premier League season.
Transfer Details and Contract Insights
The transfer fee reported involves a fixed sum of 32 million euros and can rise by an additional six million euros depending on various performance-related clauses. This represents one of Everton’s most significant investments this summer following their earlier move to make Carlos Alcaraz’s loan deal permanent. Barry’s arrival is set to add a new dimension to Everton’s frontline as the club aims to climb back up the Premier League table after recent inconsistent campaigns.
Player Background and Performance Highlights
Thierno Barry comes to Everton having impressed in his debut season with Villarreal during the 2024-2025 campaign. The French U21 international featured in 37 matches across all competitions, notching 11 goals and providing numerous assists, culminating in 15 goal involvements in LaLiga alone. His contributions were vital as Villarreal secured a respectable fifth-place finish, earning a coveted spot in the UEFA Champions League for the next season.
Barry’s journey to Villarreal began last summer when he transferred from FC Basel. In the short span at the Spanish club, he demonstrated an ability to adapt quickly to top-flight football in one of Europe’s toughest leagues. His pace, movement, and finishing ability have caught the attention of many, making him a valuable asset for Everton’s ambitions.
Everton’s Strategic Move to Strengthen Their Attack
With Everton seeking to revamp their squad, Barry fits the profile of a young, hungry striker who can flourish under the guidance of manager David Moyes. The club’s leadership views him as a player not only capable of scoring goals but also linking play and creating chances, which is vital given Everton’s need to challenge stronger Premier League defenses.
Barry himself expressed excitement about the move, citing Everton’s rich history at the Premier League level and his personal ambition to make an impact. He referenced iconic former Toffees like Wayne Rooney and Romelu Lukaku as inspirations and emphasized his readiness to adapt quickly to English football based on his positive experience in LaLiga.
Official Statements and Farewell to Villarreal
Upon leaving Villarreal, Barry took to social media to thank the club’s fans, teammates, and coach Marcelino García Toral for their support during his time in Spain. His departure marks a significant moment not only for the player but also for Villarreal, who will now prepare to replace a key attacking figure as they enter the Champions League campaign.
What This Means for Everton Fans
Everton supporters can look forward to watching a talented, high-potential striker join their ranks this summer. After a season where the Toffees struggled for consistent goal output, Barry’s arrival could be the catalyst for improved attacking performances. His youth and proven track record in top European competition suggest he has the qualities required to thrive in the Premier League spotlight.
This transfer also fits into Everton’s broader strategy of blending promising young talent with experienced campaigners, aiming to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level both domestically and in Europe.
Transfer Summary
| Player | From | To | Fee | Contract Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thierno Barry | Villarreal | Everton | ~£27.5m (up to ~€40m with variables) | 4 years (until June 2029) |
Sources reporting on this transfer include ESPN, Sky Sports, and official Everton channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Thierno Barry and where did he play before joining Everton?
Thierno Barry is a 22-year-old French striker who played for Spanish club Villarreal during the 2024-2025 season before transferring to Everton.
How much did Everton pay for Thierno Barry?
Everton paid a fixed fee of approximately £27.5 million (32 million euros), with potential add-ons raising the total to around 40 million euros.
What contract length has Thierno Barry signed with Everton?
Barry has signed a four-year contract with Everton, keeping him at the club until June 2029.
How did Barry perform in his last season at Villarreal?
He played 37 matches, scored 11 goals, and contributed to 15 goal involvements, helping Villarreal secure fifth place in LaLiga and qualify for the Champions League.
What does Barry’s signing mean for Everton’s future?
Barry’s arrival adds youth, talent, and goal-scoring potential to Everton’s attack, aligning with the club’s goal to improve their Premier League standing and compete strongly in upcoming seasons.
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