Everton are evidently looking to sign a new striker this summer transfer window.
With Armando Broja and Dominic Calvert-Lewin leaving Everton, David Moyes is in need of extra firepower.
Everton were looking at Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap earlier in the summer, but he ultimately decided to join Chelsea.
Nick Woltemade was another forward on Moyes’ radar before it became apparent that Bayern Munich would be landing his signature.
Now, Everton are fully focused on signing Thierno Barry and here is the latest on that potential transfer.
Thierno Barry puts his hands on his hips while playing for Villarreal.
Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images
What Villarreal are now telling Everton in talks over Thierno Barry transfer
Barry has been identified as Moyes’ number one striking target after his prolific season with Villarreal and Basel.
The France under-21 international netted 19 goals in all competitions, which has alerted interest from the likes of West Ham United, too.
But it’s Everton who are ahead in the race to land his signature, as El Periodico Mediterraneo are now reporting that they’re accelerating talks.
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Villarreal are insisting that they will not sanction his sale for any less than his £34m release clause, as they see him as a key player in their forthcoming Champions League campaign.
It was initially hoped that Everton could negotiate a fee below that figure, but the Spaniards are holding firm.
Villarreal will allow Barry to leave if that’s his desire
Whilst Villarreal are intent on retaining Barry’s signature this summer, they also recognise that it may not be possible.
Manager Marcelino has admitted they will let Barry leave if that’s his desire.
“If Villarreal believes that, with the investment they’ve made and what they can receive in just one year, plus the performance they’ve given, that the deal should be carried out, and also if the player himself wants to look for a new destination, then we accept it and we’ll look for solutions so that the team doesn’t weaken.”
So, at this stage, it seems all roads lead to Barry, who is reportedly keen to test himself in the Premier League.