Alan Myers’ assessment of Everton’s chances of signing Thierno Barry to replace Dominic Calvert‑Lewi brings some strategy due to….
Alan Myers on Everton’s striker strategy
Sky Sports journalist Alan Myers, a reputable voice in Premier League transfer chatter, recently weighed in on Everton’s hunt for a centre‑forward following the announced departure of Dominic Calvert‑Lewin . Myers emphasized that the Toffees are placing Thierno Barry at the top of their shopping list — not just as one option among many, but as their leading target . He noted that while Everton did examine alternatives like veteran full‑back Kyle Walker, their primary focus remains firmly on Barry .
Why Thierno Barry?
Barry, a 6′4″ French striker, has burst onto the scene. He scored 11 La Liga goals in 35 outings for Villarreal this past season, contributing four more in other competitions, for a total of 19 in 41 games . He also stood out with the France U21s, helping them reach the semi‑finals of Euro 2025 . His size, athleticism and finishing ability have caught Moyes’ eye, addressing Everton’s pressing need for a more reliable goalscorer after Calvert‑Lewin’s exit
The Calvert‑Lewin gap
Dominic Calvert‑Lewin’s departure on June 30, 2025, leaves a significant hole. A homegrown hero since 2016, he notched 71 goals in 274 matches, even hitting 21 in one standout season . But his recent form has been hampered by injuries and inconsistency, scoring just 3 league goals in 2024–25, which prompted Everton to allow him to leave on a free. Myers argues Barry’s arrival could be the signal of a new attacking era for Everton .
Deal dynamics & fee talk
Barry’s contract includes a hefty €40 million (£34 m) release clause . Everton, however, are hoping to negotiate a discount. Reports suggest offers in the £25–30 m range may be accepted . Goodison News recently described the deal as “likely to be finalised within days” at around £25 m . Meanwhile, ESPN confirms Everton have started negotiations and are prepared to meet the release clause if needed .
Squad overhaul context
Everton are deep into a summer rebuild under The Friedkin Group, with 15 first‑team players out of contract . The club is pursuing roughly 10 new signings, with Barry high on the wanted list . Myers notes this transfer is about competitiveness, especially as Everton prepare to move to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium and seek stability after another turbulent season.
Myers’ conclusion on likelihood
Myers is cautiously optimistic: Everton’s goal is clear — to land Barry — and all internal signals reflect urgency post‑Euro U21s . While negotiations are ongoing and Villarreal may hold out, Everton’s structured approach, alignment at board level, and the player’s willingness to move give the club strong momentum. Set against a backdrop of free transfers out and a pressing squad vacancy, Myers believes “the Toffees are taking further steps” to ensure the deal concludes swiftly .
Alan Myers puts Everton’s chances of signing Barry at high, though not sealed. Everton are pushing ahead decisively, with structured offers reportedly in negotiation. Barry ticks the profile boxes — and his signing would mark a clear statement that Everton are done standing still.
If you’d like a deeper dive into Barry’s stats, Villarreal’s stance, or comparisons with Calvert‑Lewin’s style, I’d
