Atletico Madrid made approach for Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Atletico Madrid are showing keen interest in signing Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, according to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg.
Premier League rivals Arsenal are also interested in signing the 24-year-old striker who is planning his next step already.
Atletico have made an approach a few weeks back. He would cost more than £33m €40m), although it seems Plettenberg has merely taken the value from the Transfermarkt website.
The Gunners are long-standing admirers of his talent, and they're "fascinated" about signing him. However, any potential deal in winter doesn't look likely.
He wrote: "News Calvert-Lewin: The 24yo striker plans his next steps. A move in summer is likely. Arsenal are fascinated about him. Atletico Madrid also inquired about him a few weeks ago. He is one of their targets in summer. The price tag is more than €40m."
Not surprising
Calvert-Lewin has grown into a top player at Everton. He is now a regular member of the England national team as well.
Any move for him in the winter transfer window is unlikely, but definitely, a lot can happen in the summer.
A lot will depend on who becomes the next manager at the club.
If Everton finish well below the top six, which looks likely, Calvert-Lewin may look for pastures new. He may want to join a club that can offer him European football.
At the same time, if Everton manage to sign a world-class manager, he can play a pivotal role in changing his heart.
There's also the financial side of things. He hasn't played much this season, but clubs around Europe may still be willing to offer a premium value for his services.
Calvert-Lewin has a contract at the club till 2025, and Everton are under no pressure to sell him. In case, he moves on, Everton are expected to demand a massive transfer fee for him.
In other Everton news, Steven Gerrard has suggested that he was surprised to see Rafa Benitez taking the Everton job.