Bundesliga Side Make Move for Everton Attacker

According to reporting from The Times, RB Leipzig have made an enquiry about Everton forward Thierno Barry. The development places the Toffees in a pivotal position regarding the player's future at Goodison Park.

Barry’s Role at Everton

Thierno Barry joined Everton in the summer of 2025 from FC Basel for a reported fee in the region of £20 million. Since arriving, the 23-year-old has featured primarily as a centre-forward, making 28 appearances across all competitions and scoring 7 goals. His pace and physicality have made him a useful option in Sean Dyche's system, though he has often been deployed from the bench in recent weeks.

Barry’s contributions have been sporadic; he has started only 12 Premier League matches this season. Nevertheless, his underlying numbers suggest potential — averaging 2.1 shots per 90 minutes and a 15% conversion rate. The enquiry from Leipzig signals that his performances have attracted attention from abroad.

Leipzig’s Interest and Tactical Fit

RB Leipzig are known for their high-pressing, transitional style under manager Marco Rose. Barry’s attributes — raw speed, strength in duels, and willingness to run in behind — align well with the Bundesliga side’s attacking principles. Leipzig currently sit fourth in the Bundesliga, and their need for a mobile forward to complement Lois Openda and Benjamin Šeško has been evident.

Barry would likely compete for minutes as a rotational option, but his capacity to play across the front line adds tactical flexibility. For Everton, losing Barry would reduce depth in attack, especially with Dominic Calvert-Lewin's injury history and Beto's inconsistent form.

Financial Implications for Everton

The Toffees are navigating Profit and Sustainability Rules, meaning any sale would provide valuable headroom. Leipzig’s enquiry does not yet include a fee, but a bid in the region of £25-30 million could test Everton’s resolve. The club paid £20 million for Barry 18 months ago, so a profit would be welcomed by the board. However, finding a replacement in the January window would be challenging.

Fantasy Premier League Impact

Barry is owned by just 1.2% of Fantasy Premier League managers and priced at £5.1 million. A move to Leipzig would remove him from FPL consideration entirely, but his departure could boost the minutes of Everton forwards like Beto or another signing. For FPL managers holding Barry, selling immediately would be prudent. Everton’s upcoming fixtures include matches against Wolves, Brighton, and Bournemouth — not especially daunting, but a striker out of form is a risk.

What’s Next for Everton and Barry

Everton face a critical decision: cash in on an asset that has not fully established himself, or retain a talented forward who could develop into a key player. The Times report suggests an open dialogue, but no formal bid has been tabled. The next two weeks will reveal whether Leipzig follow up with a concrete offer. For Barry, the prospect of Champions League football in Germany may be tempting, but he will weigh that against regular game time at Everton.

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