DONE DEAL: Everton Seal Free Transfer of Thierno Barry on Two-Year Deal as New Striker from Villarreal
🔵 Goodison Park is buzzing once again!
Everton Football Club have officially completed the signing of French-born striker Thierno Barry on a free transfer from Spanish side Villarreal, with the 22-year-old putting pen to paper on a two-year contract that will keep him at the club until June 2027. The Toffees beat off competition from several European outfits to secure Barry’s signature, confirming him as their newest attacking addition ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.
Barry, who spent the last season on the fringes of Villarreal’s senior setup after a strong loan spell at Real Zaragoza, arrives at Merseyside eager for regular first-team football and the opportunity to shine in one of Europe’s top leagues. The Frenchman is widely regarded for his pace, physicality, and clever movement in the final third — traits Everton have sorely missed in recent seasons.
Everton manager Sean Dyche praised the club’s recruitment team and welcomed Barry’s arrival in his post-announcement statement:
“Thierno is a player we’ve monitored closely. He has great potential and a hunger to prove himself at this level. He offers a new dynamic to our forward line — he’s quick, direct, and technically sharp. We’re excited to help him grow and believe he’ll be an important asset in our squad.”
The transfer marks a continuation of Everton’s strategy under new technical director Nick Cox, who is focusing on recruiting young, high-upside talents with resale value, while also plugging key gaps in the squad with smart, cost-effective deals.
Thierno Barry also shared his enthusiasm in his first interview with Everton TV:
“This is a dream move for me. Playing in the Premier League is something I’ve worked towards since I was a child. I’m grateful to Everton for this opportunity, and I promise to give my best every day — for the team, the fans, and the club. I want to make my mark here.”
The striker, originally developed through Paris FC’s youth system before moving to Belgium and then Spain, brings a diverse football education and a raw but exciting skill set. Standing at 6’3”, Barry’s aerial presence and versatility — being capable of playing both as a lone striker or as part of a front two — gives Dyche valuable tactical flexibility.
While his senior experience at Villarreal was limited, Barry made a name for himself during a breakout season in the Segunda DivisiĂłn, scoring 12 goals in 29 appearances. Scouts were impressed by his work rate, off-the-ball intelligence, and clutch performances in key matches.
With Everton’s preseason around the corner, Barry is expected to integrate quickly with the first-team squad and could feature in the club’s early friendlies.
The signing is seen as a statement of intent from the Toffees, who are aiming to move away from recent relegation scares and push toward a more stable and competitive future. Fans will now be eager to see if Thierno Barry can be the striker they’ve been craving — a new name with a big point to prove.
