Dominic Calvert-Lewin stunned transfer claim as Everton to Manchester United move mooted
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is an upgrade at striker for Manchester United before the transfer deadline but a move for the Everton star would be a major surprise, says Darren Bent.
The talkSPORT pundit admitted that the Toffees forward is “unplayable” on his day but amid concerns over his ability to stay fit he would be “stunned” to see him move to Old Trafford.
Calvert-Lewin, 27, has entered the final year of his contract at Goodison Park and has resisted the offer of an extension, so resolving his future is now the “priority” for Everton after interest from United and others [Liverpool Echo, 14 August].
Bent said (14 August): “I think it’s probably an upgrade on what you got… I’m torn on Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Because on the one hand, when you look at his numbers, you go, ‘no’.
“(But) on his day he’s unplayable. On his day, when he’s fit and firing, he’s unplayable. He’s big, he’s strong. He’s good in the air. When he is at it, no one’s out jumping him. He’s one of the best in the air. Like he’s, when he’s confident, he’s there…
“But unfortunately for himself, he just can’t stay fit whyever that is, and you can’t rely on him.”
Everton star an upgrade at Old Trafford says Darren Bent
Manchester United wanted Jarrad Branthwaite this summer but the Toffees have been loath to let the start defender leave for anything but full price, rejecting a pair of low bids.
But it would arguably be quite helpful if INEOS came forward with an offer for Calvert-Lewin as soon as possible if he isn’t going to extend his contract.
Sean Dyche wouldn’t want to see the striker leave but if it is going to happen at some point in the next year then it would probably be best for the club to bank some much-needed cash and have time left before the deadline to bring in a replacement.
Everton have two loan slots available, one domestic and one international, and Chelsea’s Armando Broja is seemingly now both willing and available to fill the first [i News, 12 August].
But Dyche also wants a central midfielder to fill the gap left by Amadou Onana and Kalvin Phillips looks to be his preferred choice.
Manchester City are now willing to do a temporary deal for the former Leeds United star [The Times, 13 August], which would force the Toffees to look abroad for the striker move if Calvert-Lewin is suddenly snapped up.
Borussia Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko might fit the bill as he has reportedly been offered to Everton after his loan switch to Marseille fell through [TEAMtalk, 13 August], but likely won’t be available for long.
In other Everton news, an Arsenal ace is emerging as an increasingly prominent Toffees transfer target.
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