Exclusive: Everton Initiates Contract Talks with Newcastle’s Top Target, Dealing Major Blow to Eddie Howe

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has emerged as a key target for Newcastle United, but Everton are determined to retain him despite their ongoing financial challenges. Sources have informed TEAMtalk that Everton must sell at least one player by June 30th to comply with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations.

Among those targeted by other clubs are Jarrad Branthwaite, Amadou Onana, and Calvert-Lewin, as suitors look to exploit Everton’s precarious financial situation. Newcastle and another unnamed Premier League team have expressed significant interest in Calvert-Lewin.

Despite struggling with injuries in recent years, Calvert-Lewin has regained form under manager Sean Dyche. He scored in four of his last seven matches this season, including a notable header in the Merseyside derby. Newcastle views him as an ideal long-term replacement for Callum Wilson, who is likely to leave St James’ Park this summer.

Dyche is keen to retain Calvert-Lewin, whose contract has just over a year remaining. Reports indicate that Calvert-Lewin aims to become Everton’s highest-paid player, a title currently held by Jordan Pickford, who earns £110,000 per week. Everton plans to continue discussions with Calvert-Lewin in hopes of reaching an agreement.

Given this context, Everton seems more inclined to sell Onana or Branthwaite rather than the 27-year-old forward. Calvert-Lewin recently reaffirmed his commitment to Everton in an interview with the club’s official website, stating, “I definitely feel a responsibility to fight this club’s corner. I lead the line for Everton Football Club and that’s a responsibility I never have and never will take lightly.”

With 54 Premier League goals for Everton, Calvert-Lewin is closing in on the club’s top three scorers: Tim Cahill (56), Duncan Ferguson (60), and Romelu Lukaku (68). He acknowledged his pursuit of this milestone, saying, “It is something I’ve been aware of more recently. I didn’t know exactly the numbers but I’m aware of it and I know that if I keep scoring goals I’ll surpass who is in front of me.

“You look at the next person on that list – Tim Cahill, an Everton icon, maybe an Everton legend to some… In my mind, if I can surpass someone like that, I’m on the right track.”

Everton faces a crucial decision as they balance financial constraints with their desire to keep Calvert-Lewin, a player vital to their ambitions on the pitch.