Everton have stepped up their interest in Villarreal star Thierno Barry, according to [The Times](https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/everton-thierno-barry-summer-transfers-5k2bbtf2h).
Manager David Moyes transformed the fortunes of the Merseyside club after joining in January.
They were sitting a point above the relegation zone when Moyes first arrived, but he led them to an impressive run, eventually securing Premier League safety with a 13th-place finish.
The Scottish boss now wants to bolster his forward line as he aims to take the club to the next level in 2025-26.
Everton are eyeing a transfer for Villarreal striker Barry, who has adapted instantly to life in Spain after joining from Basel last summer.
The 22-year-old scored 11 goals and registered four assists in 35 La Liga appearances, helping the Yellow Submarine to Champions League qualification with a fifth-place finish.
Barry has four years left on his contract at the Estadio de la Cerámica, but he can be signed this summer by paying a £34 million release clause in his deal.
Everton would reportedly try to negotiate a lower fee for the young striker, as they need to bring in reinforcements for other positions as well.
Adding a new no.9 has become a priority for Moyes’ side as Armando Broja has returned to Stamford Bridge after the end of his loan deal.
Dominic Calver-Lewin is also expected to leave the club, with the 28-year-old’s contract expiring at the end of this month.
Everton were keen on Liam Delap, [but he opted to join Chelsea](https://footballtoday.com/2025/06/04/chelsea-announce-the-arrival-of-liam-delap/).
They have now turned their attention to Barry and could submit an offer in the coming days.
_Stats from Transfermarkt_