Everton’s pursuit of a new striker is heating up with a growing interest in Thierno Barry.
The Friedkins have already experienced a number of setbacks at Everton in the opening weeks of the summer window.
Chelsea beat Everton to Liam Delap and the Londoners are now looking to add another target on the shortlist of Angus Kinnear.
A new striker for David Moyes will be the top priority this summer as the Blues eye a dependable option in front of goal.
Following the signing of Delap, Chelsea have now opened talks with Nick Woltemade who Everton were eyeing as an alternative option.
The striker market is proving a difficult one to operate in this summer but Everton are now considering Barry from Villarreal.
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Everton prepared to pay Thierno Barry’s release clause
Everton News understands Everton have contacted Barry’s agents as they weigh up a move for the 22-year-old striker.
Reports have suggested Everton were not willing to meet the demand from Villarreal in paying Barry’s full release clause.
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However, according to a fresh report from La Razon, Everton are now threatening to stump up Barry’s release clause to make him an Everton player.
There was a belief Barry was keen to stay at Villarreal given they can offer him Champions League football for next season.
Everton have been told by Villarreal that they will need to pay his €40m (£33m) release clause if they want to sign Barry.
Everton are prioritising a striker this summer as the new owners look to put their own stamp on the squad they inherited in December.
Given Everton have already lost out on one of their top striker targets, it seems as if the Friedkins could be looking to prevent another blow in the market.
Everton must act decisively in striker market
This summer’s transfer window is not waiting for anyone as the heat begins to ramp up in the striker market.
The Friedkins are dealing with a number of squad issues as Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s Everton future now looks to be over.
Quality and quantity is needed this summer on Merseyside with the squad turnover expected to be significant.
Angus Kinnear admitted he has a huge job on his hands having joined the Toffees from the newly-promoted Leeds United.
A new striker is at the top of his agenda but he has certainly got his work cut out in a hectic market.