Manchester United eyeing summer swoop for Merseyside star to address attacking deficiencies

Manchester United make an approach for Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin

The 2024-25 football season has not unfolded as Manchester United had hoped. Currently sitting 13th in the Premier League and eliminated from all domestic competitions, the Red Devils have endured a frustrating campaign. Their one bright spot has been the Europa League, where they remain in contention for the title thanks to a series of strong performances on the continent.

Much of United’s domestic struggles can be attributed to an underperforming attack. Joshua Zirkzee has managed just three goals in 31 Premier League appearances, while Rasmus Højlund has matched that tally with three goals in 26 league games. However, the latter has found better form in Europe, registering eight goal contributions in ten Europa League matches, a sign of his potential when given the right platform.

Manchester United make an approach for Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Overall, the performances of Manchester United’s attacking duo in recent months have fallen short of expectations, prompting the club to explore alternative striker options. Back in February, reports emerged suggesting that United were considering the free agent market as a short-term solution, with names like Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Jamie Vardy mentioned as potential targets.

According to TBR Football, United have made initial contact with Calvert-Lewin, though talks have yet to progress beyond that stage. The Everton striker is believed to be open to a summer move, even as the Merseyside club expresses a desire to extend his contract. However, no concrete steps have been taken by Everton to initiate those renewal talks, leaving Calvert-Lewin’s future very much up in the air.

The Old Trafford is in dire need of experienced strikers

Calvert-Lewin is attracting interest from several clubs, and the prospect of a player of his calibre potentially entering the free-agent pool this summer has not gone unnoticed. While his recent form has been underwhelming, he hasn’t hit double figures in a Premier League season for four years, largely due to recurring injuries, clubs still see value in the 27-year-old. Despite starting 19 league matches this season, Calvert-Lewin has managed just three goals for Everton. Nevertheless, the report also states that Manchester United and Newcastle United are closely monitoring the situation, with West Ham and Nottingham Forest also said to have made inquiries.

Tottenham Hotspur could very well be part of the conversation too, particularly with talk of Richarlison potentially returning to Everton. A swap deal involving two inconsistent but proven Premier League strikers could be in the cards. Calvert-Lewin boasts two 13-goal Premier League seasons, while Richarlison scored 53 goals in 152 appearances during his time at Goodison Park. A change of scenery might just be what both players need to revive their careers and rediscover their best form.

More Manchester United News

There remains a genuine possibility that the Sheffield-born striker could rediscover his best form, provided he can finally put his injury woes behind him. Last summer, Everton reportedly considered cashing in on Dominic Calvert-Lewin due to his contract situation, but ultimately decided to keep hold of him. In hindsight, that decision could prove costly. If he leaves as a free agent this summer, it would represent a major frustration for the Toffees, as they risk losing a once-valuable asset without receiving a fee, effectively letting him walk away for nothing.