Manchester United are leading the race to sign Dominic Calvert-Lewin, according to bookmakers' odds.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Man United are bookmakers favourites to sign Dominic Calvert-Lewin.(Image: Photo by Shaun Brooks - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin has confirmed he will leave the Toffees at the end of his contract and Manchester United 'lead' the chase to land his signature. Following nine years of service at Goodison Park, the 28-year-old will become a free agent on July 1 upon the expiry of his contract and reports suggest that United tentatively explored a deal for him last summer.
United made strengthening their attacking options their leading priority this summer, following a torrid Premier League campaign that saw them break records for all the wrong reasons. Ruben Amorim's side are closing in on a move to sign Bryan Mbeumo, in a deal that would make the Brentford attacker their second arrival of the summer after Matheus Cunha arrived from Wolves.
The MEN reported last week that the club remain keen on adding firepower to their attack and are desperate to land an 'out-and-out' centre forward to lead their charge.
Viktor Gyokeres has been linked with interest over a move to Old Trafford, while Liam Delap turned down a move to United in favour of a move to their Premier League rivals, Chelsea.
According to bookmakers bet365, United are leading the race to sign Calvert-Lewin following the expiry of his contract on Merseyside.
It has been suggested that Amorim's side are 5/1 on to land the bargain transfer, while Newcastle United (6/1) and Leeds United (9/1) trail in the market.
On Sunday, Calvert-Lewin released a statement confirming his departure as Everton gear up for their historic move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium on the banks of the River Mersey.
"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," he wrote.
"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.
"The 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 is 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 if 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. Up the Toffees."