LONDON, July 9 (Xinhua) -- Everton is on the verge of signing French striker Thierno Barry from Villarreal for a fee in the region of 27 million pounds (37 million U.S. dollars).
Barry flew to Liverpool on Tuesday for his medical check and on Wednesday posted a message to supporters of his former club, all but confirming a done-deal to move to the Premier League.
"It has been a great honor to have worn this shirt," wrote Barry on social media.
"Thank you for the love you've given me since day one, with that beautiful memory of my first goal in the stadium. That's what gave me the strength to go out fighting every weekend for you."
"I want to thank my teammates for letting me live an incredible year, full of joy and wonderful people I've met within the club and the team," he added, while also thanking Villarreal coach Marcelino Garcia Toral.
The 22-year-old striker scored 11 goals and gave four assists last season as Villarreal produced an impressive campaign to finish in fifth place in La Liga.
Barry stood out for his pace and power, which allowed him to lead the Spanish side's attack and create space for teammates such as Ayoze Perez and Alex Baena.
He will replace Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who left Everton at the end of June after failing to sign a new contract. ■