‘The club comes with a new ambition — I want to play my part in that,’ says Thierno Barry, who has signed a four-year deal with Everton following his transfer from Spanish side Villarreal.
The 22-year-old French-born forward of Guinean descent becomes the Toffees’ latest addition as the club looks to begin a fresh chapter under manager David Moyes.
Barry, who has represented France at U21 level, joins Everton on a contract running until June 2029.
Speaking to club media, he expressed excitement about the move and revealed his ambition to emulate Everton greats.
“I’m very happy. It’s very exciting to be here. I just can’t wait to start and I hope to start very quickly,” Barry said.
“Everton is a big club in the Premier League. They have a good history and good players have played here, like Wayne Rooney and Romelu Lukaku. When I was young, I liked to watch these players — now I want to do like these players who have gone before.”
The towering 6ft 5in striker arrives at a time of change for the club, which will be moving into a new stadium next season and embarking on Moyes’ first full campaign since returning. Barry highlighted the influence of the manager in his decision.
“I had good conversations with the manager. He told me I have the quality to play in the Premier League. He wants to do good work with me. He wants to help me on my road and I felt the sincerity with him — so that’s why I chose to come here as well.”
He added: “When the manager came last season, I think he changed a little bit the team. I feel this and the new stadium means the club comes with a new ambition, so I want to play my part in that.”
