Arsenal 'consider left-field Dominic Calvert-Lewin approach' after £30m transfer agreement

Arsenal are reportedly considering a shock move for Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin ahead of Friday’s transfer deadline. The Gunners are already expected to complete a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino this week, which would signify a third summer signing after David Raya made his loan move from Brentford permanent and Ricardo Calafiori arrived from Bologna.

However, despite being linked to a host of targets, Mikel Arteta is yet to land a big money striker, despite the perception his side lack a clinical finisher in their quest to win the Premier League title.

The Spaniard is now in need of more firepower though after a deal was reportedly agreed to allow Eddie Nketiah to leave the club.

According to the Athletic, Arsenal are set to accept an offer of £25million from Crystal Palace. The deal will also include a potential £5m more in add-ons, depending on goals scored and appearances made.

The two clubs are said to be in direct talks, with personal terms already verbally agreed. The development follows the 25-year-old seeing proposed moves to both Marseille and Nottingham Forest falling through. 

Arsenal have long been linked with a move for Napoli man Victor Osimhen. However, the Nigerian international’s release clause of more than £100million appears to have priced the north London club out of a move.

And CaughtOffside are reporting that Arteta and co deem Calvert-Lewin to be a cheaper alternative. The 27-year-old is into the final year of his contract on Merseyside, and with Everton seemingly needing to make player sales, would be available at a viable price.

Chelsea and Newcastle are also said to be interested. The former England striker joined the Toffees in 2016, and has since made 250 club appearances, scoring 68 goals.

But after striking 21 times during the 2020/21 campaign, his career has stalled amid a string of injury problems. He’s managed just 15 goals in the last three seasons, and has not played for his country for more than three years.

Calvert-Lewin is currently on wages of around £86,000-a-week, but would also face the prospect of not being first choice at the Emirates. And the Nketiah deal would need to be completed promptly to leave time for Arsenal to swoop.

The transfer deadline officially passes at 11pm on Friday. That comes just over 12 hours before Arsenal host Brighton in the Premier League at Saturday lunchtime.