Dan Bardell believes Everton might be willing to part ways with Dominic Calvert-Lewin come summer, as the striker continues to reject contract extension offers at Goodison Park.
The 27-year-old is reportedly exploring his options, with his current deal inching closer to its end, and has already turned down multiple offers from the club to stay on Merseyside, according to The Mirror.
While speculation mounts over a possible January move, Bardell, a journalist with Sky Sports and talkSPORT, thinks Everton are more likely to hold on to the ex-Sheffield United forward until the summer due to his vital role within the squad.
Speaking to Goodison News, Bardell said: “It’s going to be one of those deals where a parting of ways is inevitable.
“Calvert-Lewin has been at Everton for a long time and will want to try something different and see what’s out there as he enters the last six months of his contract.”
Bardell believes that while Calvert-Lewin is likely to attract interest, Everton may not risk losing him mid-season.
“I’m sure he’ll have options, but I don’t think Everton can risk selling him in January because he’s still so important to them,” he said.
“He has had a good period where he has stayed fit and even in games where he hasn’t scored, I always think he carries a threat.”
Reflecting on the club’s precarious position, he added:
“In what is a pivotal season for Everton, losing Calvert-Lewin would be a risk, so I think he will see out his contract and leave in the summer.”
Everton now face a decision: cash in on Calvert-Lewin in January or retain him for the remainder of the campaign.
Given that the striker has started every Premier League game under Sean Dyche this season, waiting until summer might benefit the Toffees, ensuring his contributions help them avoid the looming threat of relegation.
With a move to the new Bramley Moore Dock stadium on the horizon, keeping Calvert-Lewin could be crucial to maintaining stability during this transitional phase.
Despite the slim likelihood of him signing a new contract, his presence in the squad remains valuable as Everton seek to end the season on strong footing.