As the rumour mill begins to turn, Everton face what promises to be a hugely transformative summer. Whether this transformation will be for better or worse falls largely on the shoulders of Kevin Thelwell, who will likely need to navigate a few setbacks before making any progressive moves forward.
Major sales are expected, and interest has already been piqued in several of Everton’s star players. However, whether these sales happen depends on the offers on the table and if the sums are enticing enough to convince the Toffees to sanction exits.
Among the players who could potentially leave are Jarrad Branthwaite, Amadou Onana, Dwight McNeil, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The spotlight currently shines on the latter.
Newcastle United’s Interest in Dominic Calvert-Lewin
The latest update on Calvert-Lewin’s future comes from journalist Luke Edwards, who reports Newcastle United’s interest in the £100k-a-week former Sheffield United striker ahead of the summer transfer window. Given Calvert-Lewin’s contract situation, high interest in the 27-year-old was anticipated. However, with Newcastle facing their own PSR restrictions, a large bid is unlikely.
It will be interesting to see what Newcastle can offer that might tempt Everton to part ways with one of their star assets. This interest comes just over a year after Everton allowed Anthony Gordon to depart for a hefty £45m sum. Eddie Howe’s ambition in trying to lure Calvert-Lewin from Merseyside is commendable, but the striker is crucial to Sean Dyche’s side, and Everton would only consider an astronomical fee for his departure.
Everton’s Reliance on Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Despite not reaching his desired goalscoring figures this season, with a particularly barren spell mid-campaign, Calvert-Lewin’s importance to Everton remains clear. Dyche’s team performs more effectively and fluidly with him on the pitch, thanks to his exceptional assets.
Calvert-Lewin exemplifies the type of number nine Dyche craves, combining hulking physicality with a fine first touch, neat link-up play, and impressive speed. His aerial proficiency is particularly valuable for Everton’s direct style of play, ranking in the top 5% for aerial duels won per 90 minutes among European strikers.
Statistics from this season further highlight his importance. Everton lost 50% of matches without Calvert-Lewin, compared to 34% when he played. Their win rate was a respectable 34% with him in the squad, even though he only scored seven Premier League goals.
In the past, Calvert-Lewin has proven his ability to score consistently, netting 13 and 16 goals in successive seasons. There is a future where he continues to be a consistent goalscorer, strengthening Everton in the process.
Everton must remain patient and avoid a fire sale, realising that offloading key players like Calvert-Lewin won’t solve all their problems. His value to the team transcends his goalscoring stats, making him a pivotal figure in Dyche’s setup. Whether or not Newcastle can meet Everton’s valuation, retaining Calvert-Lewin should be a priority as they aim to rebuild and improve.