Dominic Calvert-Lewin now key Everton transfer wildcard with purchases currently impossible

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is one to watch with regards to an Everton transfer exit before the deadline, according to Paul Joyce.

The Times journalist wrote for the paper's website on 15 August that the star striker leaving without a replacement coming in would be a risk, but highlighted the uncertainty of his situation as a key variable in the remaining days of the window.

According to Joyce the Toffees are expected to be in a sell-to-buy situation up until the deadline, so Calvert-Lewin departing would affect that, although loans may still be possible without him going.

As things stand Kevin Thelwell is seen as having done a solid job in difficult financial circumstances to give Dyche a squad to push on with this term, after refusing to cave to "lowball" Manchester United bids for Jarrad Branthwaite.

Armando Broja from Chelsea could be replacement at Everton

It has to go down as a positive that the Toffees have managed to make five signings already this summer, especially when previous windows have been so fruitless.

Dyche will be used to operating in difficult circumstances by now, and having overcome a pair of points deductions last term to finish clear of the relegation zone with room to spare he can feel cautiously optimistic with his enhanced squad.

The picture isn't perfect though and sudden, recent developments have put the hopes of his long-awaited replacement for Amadou Onana at risk.

And the transfer window is nothing if not unpredictable so the final fortnight could see interest in Calvert-Lewin translate into an offer Everton can't refuse as clubs scramble for late options.

The likes of Manchester United, West Ham, Brentford, Crystal Palace and Bournemouth [TEAMtalk, 13 August] have all been linked this summer, although a switch to Old Trafford would leave at least one pundit "stunned" [talkSPORT, 14 August] and the Cherries have just agreed a big-money deal for Evanilson from Porto [BBC Sport, 15 August].

The collapse of Dan Friedkin's takeover has left the financial picture uncertain as ever, although developments with John Textor could help provide some answers.

If Calvert-Lewin makes a late exit the club will have to be on their toes right up until the deadline to pull the trigger on a replacement.

Unless the Englishman brings in a hefty fee and opens the door to a bid for Eddie Nketiah at Arsenal [TEAMtalk, 13 August] it looks like Chelsea's Armando Broja on loan could be the most likely option [i News, 12 August].

In other Everton news, an attacking ace the Toffees want is now engaged in talks over a new contract.

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