Everton make firm move for transfer as selling club reiterates their demands.

Everton have made a decisive move to pursue Villarreal striker Thierno Barry, with the 21-year-old now a top target for the summer transfer window.

According to *El Periodico Mediterraneo*, Villarreal are fully aware of Everton’s interest, though the Premier League club has yet to submit an official bid. Still, the Spanish side have made their stance clear: Barry will only leave if his €40 million release clause is paid or if a very close offer is made.

Villarreal are holding firm on that valuation, seeing it as a major financial win given they signed Barry for €16 million just a year ago. They also currently lack a ready-made replacement and would need the funds to bring in a new striker if a sale is agreed.

With Dominic Calvert-Lewin confirming his exit, Everton’s need for a forward has grown urgent. But Villarreal remain unwilling to compromise. As CEO Roig Negueroles recently said, Barry is considered crucial to the club’s Champions League ambitions and won’t be sold cheaply.