Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s eight-year tenure at Everton appears to be nearing its end, with the club reportedly prepared to accept offers as low as £20 million for the 27-year-old striker in the upcoming January transfer window. This decision stems from Everton’s precarious financial situation and the player’s unwillingness to extend his contract, which expires next June. The club is eager to avoid losing Calvert-Lewin on a free transfer and is therefore open to negotiations, recognizing the risk of him signing a pre-contract agreement with a foreign club in January.
Calvert-Lewin, who joined Everton from Sheffield United in 2016 for a mere £1.5 million, has attracted interest from several clubs, including AC Milan, West Ham, and Newcastle. The Italian giants are reportedly keen on securing the frontman’s services, while West Ham and Newcastle, who expressed interest during the summer transfer window, continue to monitor his situation. Arsenal has also emerged as a potential suitor, with manager Mikel Arteta potentially considering Calvert-Lewin as a reinforcement to bolster their title challenge.
The England international’s recent form, however, has been somewhat underwhelming. He has only managed two goals in 14 appearances this season, and his prolific 16-goal campaign in the 2020/21 Premier League season seems a distant memory. His last appearance for the national team was a brief substitute appearance in England’s 4-0 victory over Ukraine in the Euro 2020 quarter-finals. Despite this dip in form, his potential and Premier League experience still hold appeal for several clubs.
Everton’s willingness to accept a significantly reduced fee for Calvert-Lewin underscores the club’s financial constraints and the urgency to recoup some value before his contract expires. The reported £20 million price tag represents a considerable drop from his peak valuation and highlights the club’s vulnerability in the current market. This situation also reflects the changing dynamics of football finances, where clubs are increasingly forced to make pragmatic decisions to avoid losing players for nothing in the face of expiring contracts.
The upcoming January transfer window will be crucial for all parties involved. For Everton, it presents an opportunity to generate much-needed funds and potentially reinvest in the squad. For Calvert-Lewin, it offers a chance to reignite his career at a new club and potentially regain his place in the England national team. The interest from various clubs, both domestically and abroad, suggests that despite his recent struggles, he remains a sought-after player with the potential to rediscover his goalscoring prowess.
The eventual outcome will depend on the offers received and Calvert-Lewin’s personal preferences. Whether he chooses to remain in the Premier League or venture abroad, the January transfer window will undoubtedly be a defining moment in his career. For Everton, the sale of Calvert-Lewin would mark the end of an era and further emphasize the challenges they face in navigating their financial difficulties and rebuilding the squad for the future.
