Manchester United have reportedly made a surprise move to try to snap up former Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a free transfer, but the deal appears to be in jeopardy. The 28-year-old became a free agent at the end of June when his contract with Everton expired, bringing an end to a turbulent nine-year spell at Goodison Park.
The Red Devils have been actively searching for attacking reinforcements following a disappointing goalscoring record last season. Only Everton and the relegated three teams found the back of the net fewer times than United, highlighting the urgent need for new striking options under manager Ruben Amorim.
The Wage Demand Obstacle
Despite initial interest from Manchester United, the transfer appears unlikely to materialize due to financial concerns. As revealed by journalist Ben Jacobs, the former Everton ace’s personal demands are quite staggering, which is why INEOS have stepped away from talks for now. The striker was earning £100,000 gross per week at Goodison Park, but his demands as a free agent have reportedly increased significantly.
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The England international, owing to his free agent status, wage demands are very high, and therefore it is unlikely that Man United will move in that direction unless the demands decrease or they have a hole in the squad later in the window. This development has forced Manchester United’s new ownership structure, led by INEOS, to reconsider their approach to the potential signing.
United’s Strategic Approach
Manchester United’s interest in Calvert-Lewin was part of a broader strategy to address their goalscoring woes. Manchester United’s first port of call this summer was adding goals to the first team after a dismal campaign in front of goal last time out. Ruben Amorim has realised that Rasmus Hojlund cannot carry the burden alone.
The appeal of signing Calvert-Lewin was obvious from a financial perspective. Manchester United will view Calvert-Lewin as someone with extensive experience in the Premier League, while his availability on a free transfer makes any move rather appealing. However, the lack of a transfer fee doesn’t necessarily translate to a cheap deal when factoring in wages and signing-on fees.
Competition for Calvert-Lewin’s Signature
Manchester United are not the only club interested in the England striker. Dominic Calvert-Lewin could choose to continue in the Premier League following his Everton exit, with Fulham and Newcastle United keen on signing the English international. Additionally, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and West Ham United are all keen on signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin this summer.
This competition for his services may have contributed to the escalation in wage demands, as Calvert-Lewin and his representatives are likely leveraging interest from multiple clubs to secure the best possible deal. The striker’s free agent status gives him significant negotiating power, allowing him to demand higher wages without clubs having to pay a transfer fee.
The Risk Factor
Beyond the financial considerations, there are legitimate concerns about Calvert-Lewin’s injury record. When fit, Calvert-Lewin could be a huge asset to United but his injury history does raise a cause for concern. The striker has struggled with various injuries throughout his career, particularly in recent seasons, which has limited his availability and consistency.
This injury concern adds another layer of complexity to any potential deal. While his goalscoring ability when fit is undeniable, the risk of signing a player with a problematic injury record for substantial wages could prove costly for Manchester United.
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Everton’s Previous Stance
Earlier in the process, Everton had been hoping to retain their striker. Manchester United are interested in signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a free transfer in the summer of 2025, but Everton want to keep the striker. However, with his contract now expired and no extension agreed, the English international is ready to leave Everton.
The Toffees’ inability to secure Calvert-Lewin’s future at Goodison Park has opened the door for Premier League rivals to make their move, though the financial demands may prove prohibitive for many potential suitors. Manchester United stance could change if Calvert-Lewin’s wage demands decrease or if their need for attacking reinforcements becomes more desperate as the transfer window progresses.
For now, the England international remains a free agent, weighing up his options among several interested Premier League clubs. His next move will likely depend on which club is willing to meet his financial expectations while offering him the regular playing time and competitive platform he desires.
