Sean Dyche Addresses Dominic Calvert-Lewin Transfer Speculation Amid Manchester United and West Ham Links

Everton FC manager Sean Dyche has broken his silence on the ongoing speculation surrounding striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s future at the club. Amid reports linking the England international with potential moves to Premier League rivals Manchester United and West Ham United, Dyche reiterated the club’s commitment to keeping one of their key players but acknowledged the complexities of the transfer market.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been the subject of intense transfer speculation throughout the summer. The 27-year-old striker, who has been with Everton since 2016, has attracted interest from top clubs due to his aerial prowess, goal-scoring ability, and physical presence. Both Manchester United and West Ham are reportedly keen to bolster their attacking options, with Calvert-Lewin emerging as a prime target.

Despite an injury-plagued 2023/2024 season, Calvert-Lewin remains highly regarded in English football, and his potential departure has caused significant concern among Everton supporters. However, Sean Dyche, speaking at a press conference at Finch Farm, sought to reassure fans that the club is doing everything possible to retain the services of their star forward.

“Dominic is a massive player for us, and we’re fully aware of his value to the team,” Dyche stated. “There’s always going to be interest in top players, especially when it comes to strikers who can make a difference in the Premier League. But as far as we’re concerned, Dom is an Everton player, and we’re not looking to sell him.”

Dyche, who took charge of Everton in January 2023, emphasized the importance of Calvert-Lewin to his plans for the upcoming season. With the club aiming to improve on last season’s mid-table finish, retaining key players like Calvert-Lewin is seen as crucial to their ambitions.

“Dom’s been working hard in pre-season, and he’s in good shape,” Dyche added. “He’s a player who can give us that cutting edge up front, and we’re looking forward to seeing him make a big impact this season. We’re building something here, and Dom is very much a part of that.”

Reports in recent weeks have linked Calvert-Lewin with moves to both Manchester United and West Ham. Manchester United, under manager Erik ten Hag, are looking to add depth to their forward line, particularly with the long-term future of Anthony Martial uncertain and with new signing Rasmus Højlund needing time to settle. Calvert-Lewin’s ability to lead the line and score goals in the Premier League has made him an attractive option for the Red Devils.

West Ham United, managed by David Moyes, are also in the market for a striker following the departure of Gianluca Scamacca to Atalanta. With the Hammers looking to build on their UEFA Europa Conference League victory and push for a higher Premier League finish, Moyes sees Calvert-Lewin as an ideal fit for his system.

Despite the interest, Dyche reiterated that Everton has not received any formal bids for Calvert-Lewin and that the club is under no financial pressure to sell.

“There’s always speculation at this time of year, but until there’s something concrete on the table, it’s all just talk,” Dyche said. “We’re focused on preparing for the season ahead with Dom as part of our squad. He’s an Everton player, and unless something changes, that’s how it’s going to stay.”

For his part, Calvert-Lewin has remained tight-lipped about the rumors linking him with a move away from Goodison Park. The striker, who scored 7 goals in 22 Premier League appearances last season, has been fully involved in Everton’s pre-season preparations and has shown signs of returning to his best form.

“Dom is a professional, and he’s fully committed to doing his best for Everton,” Dyche commented. “He’s focused on his football, and that’s where his attention is right now. There’s a lot of noise around him, but he’s handling it well.”

Calvert-Lewin’s current contract with Everton runs until 2025, giving the club some leverage in negotiations should a bid come in. However, with the player entering his prime years, there’s also a recognition that a significant offer could test Everton’s resolve.

As the transfer window enters its final weeks, Everton’s focus remains on strengthening their squad. Dyche has already made several additions this summer, including the signings of Harvey Barnes from Leicester City and Harry Maguire from Manchester United. However, the potential departure of Calvert-Lewin would force the club to reconsider their plans.

“We’re always looking at ways to improve the squad, but we’re also mindful of keeping our best players,” Dyche explained. “If something were to happen with Dom, we’d have to assess our options, but right now, we’re not planning for that scenario.”

Dyche also expressed confidence that Everton can achieve their objectives this season, regardless of the transfer speculation surrounding their players. “We’ve got a strong group here, and the focus is on building a team that can compete. We’re excited about what we can achieve this season, and that’s where our energy is going.”

With the Premier League season set to kick off on August 19, Everton will be keen to put the transfer speculation behind them and focus on their opening match against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park. For Sean Dyche, keeping Dominic Calvert-Lewin at the club is a priority, and he remains optimistic that the striker will continue to play a key role in Everton’s plans for the season ahead.