Newcastle could be forced to step up interest in Everton star amid departure rumours

Newcastle United have been put on high alert after contract negotiations for Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin broke down, sources say.

The Magpies were heavily linked with the 11-time England international last summer, but Everton’s high demands put them off.

Since then, Calvert-Lewin has scored two goals and an assist in five Premier League games, despite Everton being just one point bottom of the table.

As revealed by CaughtOffsideNewcastle are eyeing a free transfer for Calvert-Lewin, who has scored 56 goals in 218 Premier League games so far, when his contract with Everton expires next summer.

However, with Callum Wilson heavily linked with Premier League rivals Fulham and Brentford, Newcastle may need to find a striker sooner to compete with current favourite Alexander Isak.

Will Newcastle increase interest in Calvert-Lewin?

According to The Chronicle, Newcastle are keeping a close eye on Calvert-Lewin’s situation, with manager Eddie Howe having long admired the player.

The 27-year-old appears to have put his fitness issues behind him in the past year, having made 37 Premier League appearances since the start of last season, scoring nine goals – more than in the previous two seasons combined.

Calvert-Lewin’s commitment and aerial skills make him an excellent replacement for Isak, while his ability to bring team-mates into play suits Howe’s attacking tactics well.

Calvert-Lewin comes from the Sheffield United youth academy and has been with Everton since 2016. In 252 appearances for the club in all competitions, he has scored 70 goals to date.

Top photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images