Everton are in advanced talks to sign forward Thierno Barry from LaLiga side Villarreal, according to ESPN.

The Merseyside club initiated discussions with Villarreal last week, and the 22-year-old has approved the potential move as negotiations between the clubs progress smoothly.

Barry's contract with Villarreal includes a €40 million ($46.6m) release clause, but Everton aim to secure a deal at a reduced fee.

Last season, Barry scored 11 goals and provided four assists in 35 LaLiga appearances, helping Marcelino García's team finish fifth and qualify for Champions League football.

Should the transfer be finalized, Barry would become Everton's second signing of the summer, joining Carlos Alcaraz, whose loan from Flamengo has been made permanent, at Goodison Park for the upcoming season.

Barry would compete with Guinea-Bissau international Beto to lead Everton's attack in the Premier League, following the club's departure from Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

He joined Villarreal last season from Swiss club FC Basel on a five-year contract for approximately €13.5m ($15.7m) plus potential add-ons.

Barry recently contributed to France's run to the semifinals of the European Under-21 Championship, netting one goal in five matches.