Manchester United have emerged as joint-favourites to sign Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a free transfer this summer, as the club explores cost-effective options to bolster its forward line.
Following a disappointing season in front of goal, United are in search of a new No.9. Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee managed just seven Premier League goals between them last season, and Hojlund’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain despite his £72 million price tag.
While big-money targets like Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres, and Hugo Ekitike have been linked, United’s summer spending has already included Matheus Cunha, with Bryan Mbeumo also expected to arrive. This financial context has pushed the Red Devils to consider more economical alternatives — and Calvert-Lewin fits the profile.
The 28-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Everton on Sunday after nine years at the club. In an emotional farewell, Calvert-Lewin stated, “It’s the right moment to seek a new challenge,” thanking Everton for shaping him as both a player and a person.
Between 2019 and 2021, Calvert-Lewin was among the most lethal forwards in the Premier League, scoring 36 goals in 80 games. Across his Everton career, he made 273 appearances, scoring 71 goals and providing 22 assists. He also scored four goals in 11 appearances for the England national team and was part of the squad that reached the Euro 2020 final.
However, persistent injuries have hampered his recent form. He scored only three goals in 26 appearances last season, but interest in him remains high.
Alongside Manchester United, Newcastle are also rated as 6/1 favourites to land the striker. Leeds, West Ham, Besiktas, and Celtic follow closely behind in the odds, while Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, and AC Milan are also considered potential destinations.
With manager Ruben Amorim looking to add depth to the attack and funds limited, Calvert-Lewin presents a low-risk, potentially high-reward option for United. Whether they make a formal approach could depend on how their other transfer priorities unfold in the coming weeks.