Everton may be spending big, but that does not mean that their financial issues are all but over.
After all, last month marked a fine balancing act to bypass the June 30th PSR deadline, selling with intelligence and buying tactically.
Everton’s PSR loophole garnered mass scrutiny as they exchanged deals with Aston Villa, and whilst it feels like they are in the clear, we await the Premier League’s official verdict.
For now, the Toffees have other issues to worry about, namely ensuring their star men do not rush to the exit door.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin contract situation update
Writing for The Athletic, journalist Paddy Boyland has provided the latest on a protracted Everton saga that all fans just want resolved now.
After all, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin refusing to sign a contract, he is slowly burning bridges at Goodison Park.
But, this fresh update offers hope, with Sean Dyche seemingly making it his personal mission to sort this mess out: ‘Last I checked, this hadn’t moved substantially in a while — at least not when it comes to a potential new deal at Everton. That remains their priority though after he got back towards his best at the end of last season.
‘Calvert-Lewin’s camp have long been aware of the club’s intention to offer new terms, but a decision was put on hold until survival was secured and Everton’s future became clearer. I’m unaware of any breakthrough of note, but it has been stressed to me that all options remain on the table.
‘A decision obviously needs to be made soon, given the 27-year-old striker is now into the final year of his deal. Everton’s financial situation is such that they can’t afford to lose a player of his ability and value for free, and that forces their hand here. If he doesn’t sign, then he almost certainly has to be sold.
‘Remember: Calvert-Lewin would already be a Newcastle player by now had he agreed personal terms there.’
Everton must not be forced into overpaying
Although Dominic Calvert-Lewin is a hugely important figure for Everton, and has been for eight years now, they cannot be forced into overpaying for his services.
Already his £100k-a-week contract is one of, if not the highest at the club, and given his struggles for both form and fitness in recent years, he has hardly earned that huge pay packet.
Last campaign saw him make 32 Premier League appearances, but scored just seven goals.
He even endured a barren spell where he failed to find the net across 23 consecutive matches.
The Englishman is not completely irreplaceable, but having to find a replacement will mark a tough and tiresome process for Kevin Thelwell.
Ideally, he stays, but Everton should not allow his ludicrous demands to be met, should that be the current hurdle in negotiations.
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