Everton’s recruitment drive under David Moyes has picked up serious momentum with the signing of highly-rated French striker Thierno Barry from Villarreal. The 22-year-old forward becomes the club’s second major acquisition of the summer and represents a clear statement of intent as the Toffees aim to re-establish themselves as a top-half Premier League side.
Barry arrives after an eye-catching debut season in LaLiga where he scored 11 goals and assisted four more, showcasing his blend of power, athleticism, and technical skill. Standing at 6ft 5in, Barry is viewed by Moyes as a long-term replacement for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, whose persistent injuries have forced Everton to rethink their attacking options.
Speaking to the club’s media team, Barry didn’t hide his excitement about joining Everton and fulfilling his long-held ambition of playing in the Premier League.
“It’s very exciting to be here,” Barry said. “Everton is a big club with history. When I was young, I watched players like Wayne Rooney and Romelu Lukaku. Now I want to follow in their footsteps.”
The move was driven in large part by Barry’s conversations with Moyes, whose personal touch seems to have been crucial in securing the striker’s signature.
“I felt sincerity in his words. He believes in me and wants to help me grow,” Barry added. “That made the decision easy. I’ve already shown I can adapt — LaLiga was a challenge, and I think I passed the test. Now I’m ready for the Premier League.”
While Villarreal had reportedly hoped to hold out for Barry’s €40 million release clause, Everton sealed the deal for an undisclosed fee. The club’s new striker wasted no time in winning over fans with his enthusiasm for the Merseyside atmosphere and the club’s future.
“The fans here are crazy — I like this!” he smiled. “I want to score goals for them in our amazing new stadium. When I score, I’m happy. This is my food, my energy. I always give 100 per cent.”
The newly completed Everton Stadium on Bramley-Moore Dock has become a symbol of the club’s rebirth, and Barry’s arrival fits neatly into the narrative of a team building for a new era. His physical profile and self-confidence suggest he could quickly become a fan favourite, especially if he can replicate his Spanish scoring form in English football.
For Moyes, Barry is more than just another signing — he’s a foundational piece in a summer overhaul that has only just begun.
“We see a lot of potential in Thierno,” the manager said. “We’ll give him the time he needs to settle and develop. There’s more work to be done, and we’re looking forward to making further additions.”
Everton’s intent in the transfer market is clear: youth, potential, and a forward-thinking approach under Moyes’ experienced guidance. If Barry’s transition to English football is as smooth as his words suggest, Goodison’s final memories — and the first ones at their new home — might well be punctuated by the roar of a new No. 9.
