Newcastle’s interest in Calvert-Lewin takes fresh twist: ‘Not engaged’
Newcastle United are exploring a move for free agent Dominic Calvert-Lewin, but the Toon have encountered a stumbling block in their approach.
Calvert-Lewin left Everton following the expiry of his contract at Merseyside, and Eddie Howe is looking for a new striker following Callum Wilson’s own exit from St James’ Park.
Howe is looking to add depth to his squad and sign a back up for star striker Alexander Isak, who is still the subject of transfer links to Liverpool.
21-year-old William Osula is the only other recognised striker on Newcastle’s books, so signing a centre forward is a priority for Howe this summer.
Wages an issue to agree any deal
Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga looks to become the Toon’s first major signing of the summer after a deal was agreed between the two clubs.
However, The Chronicle report that Newcastle have so far “not engaged in any real talks with Dominic Calvert-Lewin” even though he has been offered to the club.
They also state signing the 28-year-old “would swallow a huge chunk of the wage budget.”
There are other targets Howe wants to prioritise first and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins has been touted with a move.
Howe weighs up Calvert-Lewin decision
Football Insider Verdict
Calvert-Lewin spent nine seasons at Everton, but recent injury problems have hampered his goal scoring form.
The former Sheffield United player hit 16 Premier League goals in the 2020/21 season in his best season at Goodison Park.
He managed just three league goals last campaign, but that still hasn’t put potential suitors off including Manchester United.
| Appearances | 273 |
| Goals | 71 |
| Assists | 22 |
An in form and injury free Calvert-Lewin has shown he can compete with the best Premier League defences and he could be a very useful back up behind Isak if talks begin between the two parties.
If the club cannot currently accommodate his wage demands that points to players needing to leave the club before Calvert-Lewin can arrive.
Harvey Barnes could be one player to free up space on the wage bill, but Howe is focused on adding players to his squad instead of letting stars leave.
Howe has a list of targets he wants to pursue this summer, with Italian centre-back Giorgio Scalvini his ‘dream’ purchase.