Premier League player Dominic Calvert-Lewin chooses immediate return over vast Sunderland offer, affirms decision
After a summer of transfer speculation, Dominic Calvert-Lewin has finally made his move, leaving Everton behind to join newly-promoted Leeds United. The striker, who spent nine years at Goodison Park, will don a new club kit for the first time since 2016.
Calvert-Lewin's decision to leave Everton was not a hasty one. He turned down offers from Sunderland and other clubs, seeking a more challenging opportunity in the Premier League. Leeds United, with their massive fan base, prestigious platform, and a three-year contract, offered just that.
The 2023/24 season was the last time Calvert-Lewin scored double figures, with seven goals from 33 league matches. However, his best goal return was in the 2020/21 season under Carlo Ancelotti, where he scored 16 times in 33 league fixtures. In total, he netted 57 Premier League goals during his time at Everton.
Leeds United's promotion back to the Premier League and their need for an experienced forward aligned well with Calvert-Lewin's desire for regular top-flight football and a prominent role. Initially, his wage demands were a barrier for Leeds United, but the two parties managed to reach an agreement.
Meanwhile, Manchester United opted to sign Benjamin Sesko instead of Calvert-Lewin, and Newcastle held talks with him but were ultimately unsuccessful in their pursuit. Sunderland, too, showed interest, offering to make Calvert-Lewin their highest-paid player and securing a loan for Chelsea youngster Marc Guiu as a potential replacement.
Calvert-Lewin's departure from Everton sparked a frenzy of interest from Premier League clubs. Leeds United and Calvert-Lewin held talks earlier in the transfer window, and the striker was impressed by the Elland Road fans, who he described as loud and passionate.
Calvert-Lewin's agent was sacked amid the ongoing transfer saga, and Everton offered him a new contract on reduced terms, which he declined in favour of seeking a new challenge.
As Calvert-Lewin prepares for his new adventure at Leeds United, he leaves Everton as their third-highest scorer in the Premier League. His departure marks the end of a summer of speculation and the beginning of a fresh start for both parties.
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