Dominic Calvert-Lewin has refused a new deal with Everton and wants to join Newcastle, according to Graeme Bailey. Speaking to Everton.news (4 July), the HITC journalist adds that the striker “wants to go” to St James’ Park and that a contract is still on the table despite the Magpies’ withdrawal from talks last month [Luke Edwards, 24 June]. Everton offered the striker a new contract, but he declined, and Bailey predicted that Newcastle might return to negotiate a deal in August, with the Toffees “open to him leaving”. “They’re [Everton] not getting that deal done,” he said. As of now, he has rejected down a deal. “He wants to travel to Newcastle. That one has legs, too.
“Calvert-Lewin is one player; if he’s still with Everton after August, I believe they’ll look at a deal again. “Look where they are.”I believe the club is open to his departing, but it depends on who wants him. There aren’t too many teams pursuing him. I believe he will finish up at Newcastle United. “That is my personal belief.” Everton prepare for Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s exit. In an ideal world, Sean Dyche would undoubtedly keep Calvert-Lewin at the club for another season since he is the type of forward that the manager prefers in his squad.
However, given the club’s financial issues, they simply cannot afford to risk losing Calvert-Lewin for free in 12 months given his previous injury history. Iliman Ndiaye has already joined the club to improve the striker options, but there is also interest in Che Adams [Birmingham World, 4 July], which could indicate that the Toffees are looking for replacements if Calvert-Lewin leaves.
However, with Newcastle plainly not in a hurry to complete a deal, any agreement may become a game of chicken, with Everton potentially waiting until the last minute to make a final decision. If Calvert-Lewin wants to leave, it is in everyone’s best interests to do a deal to bring in some cash and boost the roster with players who want to be a part of Dyche’s team.
