Everton will need to table a “huge” contract offer to persuade Dominic Calvert-Lewin to extend his stay at Goodison Park, sources have told Football Insider.
Senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed on the latest episode of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast that the 27-year-old striker is in a “strong position” as he weighs up his future options.
Calvert-Lewin’s current contract runs out at the end of this season, meaning he will enter the final six months of his deal in January. If no agreement is reached by then, the England international will be free to negotiate with foreign clubs and potentially sign a pre-contract agreement.
Well-placed sources told Football Insider that discussions between Everton and Calvert-Lewin are ongoing, with the club determined to retain one of their key players.
However, the striker’s strong bargaining position means Everton will need to submit a substantial offer to keep him at the club beyond this campaign.
Everton risk losing Calvert-Lewin for free:
Newcastle United reportedly kept close tabs on Calvert-Lewin during the summer transfer window, with manager Eddie Howe keen to strengthen his attacking options.
According to Football Insider, the forward has already turned down multiple extension offers from Everton, preferring to keep his options open as he considers his next step.
While Everton remain hopeful he will commit to a new long-term deal, the decision ultimately rests with the player.
Calvert-Lewin, who joined Everton in 2016, has made 254 appearances for the Toffees, scoring 70 goals during his time at the club.
Despite struggling with injuries in recent seasons, he has regained fitness and featured in every Premier League match this term, scoring twice under manager Sean Dyche.
The next few months will be pivotal as Everton attempt to secure his future and avoid losing one of their most experienced forwards for nothing.