According to The Telegraph, Everton may now be forced to sell Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who is said to be a target for Arsenal and Newcastle.
What’s the story?
Well, just like Chelsea and Roman Abramovich, Everton may be affected by Alisher Usmanov and his “close ties” to Vladimir Putin.
That was according to The Telegraph, who write that the 68-year-old is set to be sanctioned by the United Kingdom after being named on a new list signed off by Liz Truss, the foreign secretary.
So, how does this affect Everton? Well, Usmanov has many sponsorship deals with the Toffees, which are worth a combined £20m-a-season.
These have now been suspended. Additionally, his USM company sponsors Finch Farm, and Everton may now be forced into selling some assets such as Calvert-Lewin.
The Telegraph believe Newcastle have discussed signing the England international, whereas it was the Daily Mail who claimed that Arsenal are interested in the £60m forward.
Arsenal and Newcastle must pounce
If Everton do find themselves backed into a corner as they look to fund their new stadium on Bramley Moore Docks, Arsenal and Newcastle must pounce.
Calvert-Lewin is one of the best strikers in the Premier League, and given his importance to Everton, it’s unlikely that he would actually have been available unless someone offered an eye-watering sum.
Now, Everton may have to sell, so the Gunners and the Magpies need to be on red alert.
The Toffees could soon find themselves out of bother, so it may be a now-or-never situation in regards to Calvert-Lewin’s availability.
Keep an eye on this saga, as there could soon be a significant development.
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