Calvert-Lewin confirms Everton departure

Dominic Calvert-Lewin will definitely be leaving Everton this summer as his current contract with the Blues expires tomorrow.

The 28-year-old made the announcement on Instagram with a heart-felt and considered post where he thanked the Club and the fans for what he describes as "nine remarkable years". 

It had been expected that Calvert-Lewin, a £1.5m signing from Sheffield United as a promising 19-year-old in 2016, would depart this year given that talks over new terms last year failed to result in him signing a new deal.

A proposed move to Newcastle United never materialised and the striker remained at Goodison Park for the 2024/25 season, making 26 appearances and scoring three goals before suffering a torn hamstring in what was only David Moyes's second match back in charge of the Toffees.

It was thought that the departure of Sean Dyche, the manager credited with helping Calvert-Lewin get back to fitness in 2023 by insisting that he get fully fit before he could be considered for action but someone with whom the player is said to have increasingly been at odds as time wore on, he might consider staying at Everton.

However, today's news confirms that he will now seek a fresh challenge elsewhere. Calvert-Lewin's full post to the social media platform was as follows:

To Everton Football Club and the Evertonians,

After nine remarkable years at this club, l've made the incredibly difficult decision-together with my family-to begin a new chapter in my career.

This isn't something I chose lightly. Everton has been my home since I was 19 years old.

It's the place that saw potential in me, challenged me to grow, and shaped me both as a footballer and as a man.

I want to express my gratitude to all the managers and coaches I've worked with over the years, and to my teammates who have become lifelong friends.

Above all, I want to speak to you, the fans. Your passion is the beating heart of this club.

Whether times were good or tough, your unwavering support never faltered.

Celebrating goals at Goodison Park, feeling that roar, is an experience I'll carry with me forever.

This choice to move on was not simply about me-it was a decision my family and I spent a long time considering together. We believe it's the right moment to seek a new challenge and continue growing, but that doesn't lessen the bond I'll always have with Everton.

I'm deeply proud of what we've shared, fighting for this club when it mattered most, scoring big goals in crucial moments, wearing the shirt with commitment and pride.

My hope is that I leave with your respect, knowing I always sought to uphold the values of this great club.

Thank you for everything.

From my very first day, I always knew what it meant to play for Everton.

Up the Toffees.

DCL

Calvert-Lewin's decision heightens Everton's need for striking reinforcements this summer, with movement on potential targets expected once the new financial year begins on 1st July.

The Blues have been heavily linked with Villarreal striker Thierno Barry who is reportedly the top target for the current window.

Read: "The Casualty"