Everton star Calvert-Lewin on four-man Arsenal shortlist to replace Aubameyang
Everton star forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been named as one of four candidates wanted by Arsenal’s Arteta should Aubameyang leave this January, according to ESPN.
The broadcaster reports that the Toffees talisman is part of a quartet of potential replacements along with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, Real Sociedad’s Alexander Isak and Fiorentina’s Dušan Vlahović.
ESPN’s sources also said Arsenal are aware of how expensive a replacement may turn out to be and that other options are being considered alongside Everton’s star man.
Everton manager Rafa Benítez revealed earlier this week that the Englishman could be set to return from injury earlier than expected. But could Arsenal pounce before the Toffees see a fully-fit Calvert-Lewin back in action?
The ESPN piece states: “Aubameyang’s future at Arsenal has been thrown into considerable doubt over disciplinary issues, and Arteta is willing to listen to offers for him in January.
“Arteta and Arsenal’s recruitment team are planning for life without Aubameyang and have a range of options that they are considering. Among them is Watkins, who joined Villa for £27.7m from Brentford last summer and has scored 18 league goals in 51 appearances for the club. Sources said Arteta is a fan of Watkins’ playing style and his ability to play in a number of different roles in attack. There has been no direct contact between Arsenal and Aston Villa over Watkins, and sources said a switch in January would be highly unlikely, but the 25-year-old will be monitored ahead of a summer move.
“Real Sociedad’s Isak, Fiorentina’s Vlahovic and Everton’s Calvert-Lewin are also options in the event Aubameyang moves on, although sources said Arsenal are aware of how expensive a replacement may turn out to be and that other options are being considered.”
Imperative
With the pressure of the second half of the season mounting, Everton boss Benítez must do all within his power to keep Calvert-Lewin at the club.
The Spaniard has been without the England attacker for the majority of the season with the Sheffield United academy graduate netting three goals in three before a lengthy injury battle.
Goodison News touted Patrik Schick as a potential replacement for the forward. However, a bit of stability would be welcomed by the manager and the supporters alike.
Plus, club captain Seamus Coleman has recently praised the striker’s leadership qualities and importance to the morale of the team.
With Aubameyang pushed out of Arsenal’s squad at the turn of the year, former Everton star Arteta could be scrambling for a replacement this summer.
It certainly would be wisest for Benítez to keep hold of his star striker at least until the summer when cash may still be an issue for the Toffees.
In other Everton news, a Liverpool legend has predicted the outcome of the Toffees’ game against Brighton.