Everton are confident of completing a deal for Villarreal striker Thierno Barry (22), according to Foot Mercato. The French forward has attracted Premier League interest following a breakthrough campaign in Spain and a series of eye-catching performances at the U21 Euros.
Barry registered 11 goals and 4 assists in 37 appearances in all competitions for Villarreal last season. Having joined the Yellow Submarine from FC Basel for €14m last summer, he has rapidly made a name for himself on the European stage. His form earned him a call-up to France’s U21 squad for the ongoing Euros, where he scored the winner against Georgia in the group stage despite being used mostly as an impact substitute.
Everton have already seen an opening bid turned down but remain optimistic, believing the player is keen on a move to the Premier League. Barry’s current release clause is set at €40m, though the Toffees are pushing to negotiate a lower fee.
His rise has been swift. Just three years ago, Barry was playing in France’s fifth tier with Sochaux’s reserves, before earning moves to Basel and then Villarreal in consecutive summers. Now, the towering forward could be set for the next chapter in the English top flight.
GFFN | George Boxall
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