Jul 20, 2022; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Everton starters pose for a photograph before the game against Minnesota United at Allianz Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

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Everton Sign Exciting Villarreal Striker Thierno Barry for £27M

Thierno Barry’s rapid rise has seen him move from France’s fifth tier three years ago to the Premier League.

Jul 20, 2022; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Everton starters pose for a photograph before the game against Minnesota United at Allianz Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

Everton have bolstered their attack for the future by securing the signing of France Under-21 striker Thierno Barry from Villarreal in a £27 million deal. The 22-year-old has agreed to a four-year contract that will keep him at Goodison Park until June 2029.

Barry had a £34.5 million release clause in Spain. However, Everton negotiated a reduced fee for the lanky striker. Barry had an impressive campaign in La Liga last season as he helped Villarreal secure Champions League football with their highest points tally in 17 years. He scored 11 goals and registered four assists in 38 appearances.

We have completed the signing of France Under-21 striker Thierno Barry from Villarreal for an undisclosed fee.

Welcome to Everton, Barry! 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/KYyhh9TNC8
— Everton (@Everton) July 9, 2025

Barry Well-Suited to David Moyes’ System at Everton

The 6ft 5in forward is renowned for his aerial dominance. He ranked second among all forwards across Europe’s top leagues in aerial duel success last season (winning 66.7% of 153 challenges). Barry has all the qualities that align perfectly with David Moyes’ system at Everton.

Speaking to Everton TV, Barry shared his excitement after completing the transfer. The French striker said,

I’m very happy. It’s very exciting to be here. Everton is a big club in the Premier League. They have a good history and good players have played here, like Wayne Rooney and Romelu Lukaku. When I was young, I liked to watch these players, now I want to do like these players who have gone before.”

His signing comes as Everton look to reshape their forward line following the departure of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and the return of Armando Broja to Chelsea after his loan ended.

Barry’s rapid rise has seen him move from France’s fifth tier three years ago to the Premier League, progressing through Beveren, Basel, and Villarreal. His performances also played a crucial role in France Under-21s reaching the semi-finals of the European Championships this summer.

Everton fans will be eager to see how Barry’s physical presence and finishing ability can add a new dimension to the Toffees’ attack as they look to strengthen their position in the Premier League.

Everton

Premier League

Thierno Barry

Villarreal

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.