BREAKING NEWS: Dominic Calvert-Lewin Bids Emotional Farewell to Everton as Club Accelerates Talks for Exciting Replacement Amid Leeds United Interest
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has officially confirmed his departure from Everton, bringing an end to an emotional nine-year journey with the club. The 28-year-old striker, whose contract expires on June 30, has chosen not to extend his stay at Goodison Park. As speculation mounts about his next move — with Leeds United reportedly showing serious interest — Everton are now stepping up their efforts to bring in a dynamic new forward to fill the void.
Calvert-Lewin Ends Nine-Year Spell with Everton
Signed from Sheffield United for just £1.5 million in 2016, Calvert-Lewin leaves Everton as one of the club’s most iconic modern-era players. His 71 goals in 273 appearances make him Everton’s third-highest Premier League goal scorer, a testament to his impact during nearly a decade of service. Despite his career on Merseyside being hindered by recurring injuries, the England international delivered some truly unforgettable moments — most notably his dramatic late winner against Crystal Palace in 2022, which secured Everton’s Premier League survival.
On Saturday evening, Calvert-Lewin shared a heartfelt farewell message on Instagram, expressing gratitude to the club, its staff, his teammates, and above all, the fans.
> “After nine remarkable years at this club, I’ve made the incredibly difficult decision – together with my family – to begin a new chapter in my career,” he wrote. “This isn’t something I chose lightly. Everton has been my home since I was 19 years old. It’s the place that saw potential in me, challenged me to grow, and shaped me both as a footballer and as a man.”
He continued:
> “Your passion is the beating heart of this club. Whether times were good or tough, your unwavering support never faltered. Celebrating goals at Goodison Park, feeling that roar, is an experience I’ll carry with me forever.”
> “This decision was not simply about me — it’s a move my family and I reflected on deeply. We believe now is the right moment to embrace a new challenge and continue growing.”
Calvert-Lewin concluded by saying he hopes to leave with the fans’ respect, having always given his best and played with pride.
Leeds United Linked as Everton Eye Ambitious Replacement
Calvert-Lewin’s exit opens the door for a fresh attacking era at Everton, and the club’s recruitment team is wasting no time in identifying potential replacements. Talks are already underway for a forward who can inject energy, creativity, and consistency into Sean Dyche’s front line.
Leeds United are understood to be one of the clubs interested in signing Calvert-Lewin, as they prepare for a potential return to the Premier League. With their ambitions growing under manager Daniel Farke and a revamped ownership structure, Leeds may offer Calvert-Lewin both a key role and a new environment to revitalize his career.
Meanwhile, Everton are casting a wide net in search of a replacement. The Toffees are reportedly looking at multiple profiles — including both experienced top-flight forwards and exciting emerging talents — as they aim to reinforce their squad ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Names such as Coventry City’s Ellis Simms, who previously played for Everton, and Strasbourg’s Habib Diallo, who has impressed in Ligue 1, are being circulated in the media as possible candidates. The club is also rumored to be in talks with representatives of an unnamed overseas striker, described as an “exciting attacking prospect with significant upside.”
End of an Era, Start of a New One
Calvert-Lewin’s departure marks the end of a memorable chapter for Everton. From his breakthrough under Ronald Koeman to his peak under Carlo Ancelotti and his late heroics in Everton’s relegation battles, he has been a central figure through highs and lows. His decision to leave was not taken lightly — but it also represents a clean break for both player and club.
For Everton, the focus now shifts to the future — and with a new stadium on the horizon and Premier League status secured, they have an opportunity to reshape their squad with a modern, attack-minded identity. Finding the right replacement for Calvert-Lewin will be key to ensuring that the club doesn’t just move on — but moves forward.
As for Calvert-Lewin, his next destination remains unconfirmed, but interest is growing rapidly. Whether it’s Leeds, Newcastle, or another suitor, the striker’s next move will be closely watched by fans eager to see how the next chapter of his career unfolds.