Dominic Calvert-Lewin has confirmed that he will be leaving Everton after nine years at Goodison Park, with the striker's contract set to expire at the end of the month
Dominic Calvert-Lewin of Everton
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has revealed his departure from Everton following a nine-year spell at the club.
The frontman made his way to Goodison Park back in August 2016 and has publicly declared via an Instagram post that he is taking the "incredibly difficult decision" to move on.
Encountering a trying season last term, Calvert-Lewin managed just three goals across 26 league matches, also facing an extended spell sidetracked by injury from January through to May.
Newcastle United had been linked with a move for the striker, but have cooled interest since last summer, when they approached Everton over a potential deal. It is not thought that they will look to sign him once he leaves Merseyside.
Having chalked up 239 top-flight outings for the Toffees since kicking off his Premier League journey in December 2016, he hit his stride spectacularly during the 2019-20 season with a tally of 15 in total competitions.
His ascendancy continued into the next season registering 21 goals across the board, but subsequently, fitness woes have hampered his progress. Now at 28, Calvert-Lewin is primed to part ways with Everton as his contract approaches its June termination point.
Taking to Instagram, Calvert-Lewin expressed, "To Everton Football Club and the Evertonians. 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.
"This isn't something I chose lightly. Everton has been my home since I was 19 years old. It's the place that saw potential in me, challenged me to grow, and shaped me both as a footballer and as a man.
"I want to express my gratitude to all the managers and coaches I've worked with over the years and to my teammates who have become lifelong friends.
"Above all I want to speak to you, the fans. Your passion is the beating heart of this club. Whether times were good or tough, your unwavering support never faltered. Celebrating goals at Goodison Park, feeling that roar, is an experience I'll carry with me forever.
"This choice to move on was not simply about me – it was a decision my family and I spent a long time considering together.
"We believe it's the right moment to seek a new challenge and continue growing, but that doesn't lessen the bond I'll always have with Everton.
"I'm deeply proud of what we've shared, fighting for this club when it mattered most, scoring big goals in crucial moments, wearing the shirt with commitment and pride.
"My hope is that I leave with your respect, knowing I always sought to uphold the values of this great club.
"Thank you for everything. From my very first day, I always knew what it meant to play for Everton."
Calvert-Lewin's last appearance for Everton came at Newcastle on the final day of the season back in May, when he made a second-half substitute appearance.