Newcastle United have been heavily linked with signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin from Everton, but some people within the club have doubts about the striker.
The Magpies will turn their attentions to attack following the conclusion of the Sven Botman deal. He is set to sign for the club from Lille, costing £35million.
Botman will become the third player to join Newcastle this summer alongside Matt Targett and Nick Pope.
Now Eddie Howe wants to add attacking reinforcements, with Calvert-Lewin listed as a striker option.
Newcastle need more competition for the injury prone Callum Wilson, but the club aren’t completely convinced about a move for Everton’s number nine.
Newcastle have doubts over Calvert-Lewin’s form and fitness
According to the Daily Mail, there are doubts surrounding the 25-year-old’s 2021/22 Premier League campaign. Some people within St James’ Park are concerned about Calvert-Lewin’s fitness record and his form.
He ended last season with five goals from 17 Premier League appearances. It’s a disappointing tally compared to what he got the year prior when he netted a career best 16 Premier League goals.
It’s three goals less than Wilson, who also endured an injury-ridden season. He got eight goals in 18 appearances.
Calvert-Lewin started last season in scintillating fashion, scoring three goals in his first three games back in August. However, a fourth wouldn’t arrive until May after suffering a toe injury then struggling to re-find his form.
The length of time it took Calvert-Lewin to get back to full fitness is certainly a concern. He appeared to suffer setback after setback.
But should that put Newcastle off a deal for the England international? It’s the first time in years he’s suffered from a serious injury problem.
The main issue is the price, with Everton reportedly wanting £60million for Calvert-Lewin. There’s no chance Newcastle will pay that amount.
He might be worth that figure if he was on the back of another strong Premier League season, but the truth is he’s not.
With doubts inside Newcastle and a ludicrous asking price, a deal for Calvert-Lewin feels unlikely at this stage.
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