Former England international Gabby Agbonlahor is not expecting Arsenal to raid Premier League rivals Everton for Dominic Calvert-Lewin this summer, speaking to talkSPORT (31 March, 9.20am).
Calvert-Lewin’s agent might have rubbished speculation suggesting the Goodison Park frontman has already agreed to leave the relegation-Toffees in the upcoming transfer window.
But it’s fair to say his future is far from certain right now.
The Sun (27 March, page 67) claim that Everton could sacrifice last season’s 21-goal top scorer in order to raise funds for a much-needed squad overhaul.
West Ham are interested.
So to an Arsenal side who, come July 1st, might not have a single centre-forward in their ranks. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has already departed. Eddie Nketiah and Alexandre Lacazette will go too, with their contracts expiring.
But Agbonlahor wonders whether Calvert-Lewin’s recent struggles – he’s scored just three times in an injury-hit campaign – might have wrecked his chances of a move to one of the division’s high-flyers.
Will Arsenal sign Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin?
“I’m not sure Arsenal will want him. He’s been injured but, when he’s been fit, he hasn’t been catching the eye this season,” says the former Aston Villa captain.
“Last season he was unbelievable. But this season, he hasn’t been great. I think Arsenal are probably looking at better to be honest. He’s a good player but I think Arsenal have got to get this (summer window) right.
“They’re in a good position now.”
Arsenal, who are in pole position to secure a return to the Champions League after winning 11 of their last 14 games, have already missed out on their number one striker target since the turn of the year.
Dusan Vlahovic joined Juventus for £62 million in January.
Calvert-Lewin is not the only England international on Mikel Arteta’s radar, however, with Marcus Rashford considering his future at Manchester United.
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“I don’t think Arsenal would go for Calvert-Lewin if I’m honest,” Agbonlahor adds.
I think they’ll go for Rashford before Calvert-Lewin. Because whatever Everton ask for Calvert-Lewin, it’s gonna be a lot. What would you say? £50 – £60 million?”
According to The Sun, Everton will demand an even bigger fee for Calvert-Lewin. One in the region of £70 million.
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