Everton Complete the Signing of 11-Goal La Liga Striker | OneFootball

Thierno Barry Joins Everton as Moyes Looks to Reinforce Forward Line

Toffees Secure Emerging Talent from Villarreal

Everton have completed the signing of 22-year-old striker Thierno Barry from Villarreal, marking an important addition to their forward line ahead of the new Premier League season. As reported by Sky Sports, “The striker has signed a four-year contract with the Toffees, and arrives on Merseyside having only joined Villarreal last summer from Swiss side FC Basel.”

Barry is viewed as a player with significant upside after an impressive season in LaLiga, where he netted 11 goals and provided four assists in what was widely recognised as a breakthrough campaign. A tall, athletic striker with strong hold-up play and intelligent movement, Barry offers Everton the kind of direct, mobile presence they have missed in recent years.

Photo IMAGO

His arrival comes at a key juncture. With Dominic Calvert-Lewin departing and Beto attracting interest from Leeds United, Everton’s need for fresh attacking impetus was clear. Barry’s signing addresses that shortfall while also aligning with the club’s desire to sign younger players who can grow into key roles.

Moyes Keen to Provide Platform for Growth

David Moyes expressed both excitement and caution over the new addition. “We are delighted to have brought Thierno to the club. We see lots of potential and we are hoping for good things from him. We will give him plenty of time to settle in and we are looking forward to getting started working with him as soon as possible.”

It is a pragmatic approach from the Everton boss. Barry’s move to Villarreal just one year ago followed a prolific spell in Switzerland with FC Basel, and while his LaLiga campaign turned heads, the Premier League will be a fresh challenge altogether. Still, Moyes’ history of developing young players suggests Barry will be handled with care and given room to flourish.

His ability to stretch defences and occupy both centre-backs could make him a key figure in Everton’s transitional play, particularly if supported by more creative additions in midfield.

Forward Restructure Gathers Momentum

Everton’s recruitment strategy appears to be focusing on refreshing the spine of the squad, and Barry’s arrival is likely to be the first of several attacking signings. Moyes added, “I’m hoping to make more additions in the coming weeks,” which aligns with the club’s effort to avoid a repeat of last season’s struggles in front of goal.

With Beto’s future uncertain and Calvert-Lewin gone, there is space for Barry to establish himself quickly. That said, the expectation will be carefully managed. Barry is raw but gifted, and Everton fans will hope his development is given proper support by a stable system and stronger supply lines from wide areas and deep midfield.

Photo IMAGO

Opportunity for Change in Identity

Everton have been through a turbulent period in recent seasons, with managerial changes and financial pressures creating uncertainty on and off the pitch. A signing like Barry, for a moderate fee and with long-term upside, represents a shift toward sustainable squad building.

At 22, Barry could become a focal point of Everton’s attack for years to come. The hope is that with the right mentorship and consistent minutes, he becomes more than just a replacement for outgoing forwards, but a cornerstone of a new era under Moyes.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Everton fans, the signing of Thierno Barry is refreshing. We’ve had too many windows chasing fading names or relying too heavily on players who can’t stay fit. This is different. Barry’s profile is exciting. He’s young, coming off a strong season in Spain, and looks hungry to prove himself.

It’s also encouraging to see the club acting before the season begins, rather than waiting for deadline-day chaos. Losing Calvert-Lewin was inevitable, and Beto might be next, but Barry gives us a forward with energy and unpredictability. There will be pressure on him, sure, but there’s also patience from Moyes, which is vital.

What matters most is that we surround him with players who can create chances. If the supply is there, Barry will score. Fans will want to see the club continue building, especially with more signings up top and in midfield. But as a first step, this feels like a positive move.

Barry has the talent. Now it’s about giving him the environment to succeed. If he clicks, we might just have found the striker to carry us forward for the next few seasons.