Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin has confirmed he will leave the Toffees at the end of his contract, with Manchester United reportedly ‘leading’ the chase to secure his signature. After nine years at Goodison Park, the 28-year-old is set to become a free agent on July 1, coinciding with the expiration of his contract. It’s been suggested that United showed initial interest in him last summer.
Following a challenging Premier League season, where they set unwanted records, Manchester United have prioritized strengthening their attacking options this summer. Manager Ruben Amorim is close to completing a move for Bryan Mbeumo, which would mark the Brentford forward as their second addition following the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves.
As reported by the MEN last week, the club is still keen to bolster their attack with a focused push for an ‘out-and-out’ centre forward. Viktor Gyokeres has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, while Liam Delap opted to join Chelsea instead of United.
According to bookmakers bet365, Manchester United currently leads the race to sign Calvert-Lewin, with their odds at 5/1 for the forward’s transfer following the end of his contract. Newcastle United is next at 6/1, while Leeds United sits at 9/1 in the betting market.
In a statement released on Sunday, Calvert-Lewin confirmed his departure as Everton prepares for their significant transition to the Hill Dickinson Stadium along the River Mersey.
“After nine remarkable years at this club, I’ve made the incredibly difficult decision – together with my family – to begin a new chapter in my career,” he shared. “This isn’t something I chose lightly. Everton has been my home since I was 19 years old.
“It’s the place that believed in me, prompted me to grow, and shaped me both as a footballer and as a person. I want to express my gratitude to all the managers and coaches I’ve worked with, and to my teammates who have become lifelong friends. Above all, I want to address you, the fans. Your passion is the lifeblood of this club.
“Regardless of whether times were good or tough, your unwavering support never wavered. Celebrating goals at Goodison Park, feeling the crowd’s roar, is a memory I’ll treasure forever. The decision to move on wasn’t just about me – it was a choice my family and I took time to consider together. We believe this is the right moment to pursue a new challenge and continue growing, but that doesn’t diminish the bond I’ll always have with Everton.
“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, fighting for this club in crucial moments, scoring important goals, and wearing the shirt with dedication and passion. My hope is to depart with your respect, knowing I always aimed to uphold the values of this great club. Thank you for everything. From my very first day, I understood what it meant to play for Everton. Up the Toffees.”
