
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is set to join Leeds United on a free transfer, bringing his nine-year stay at Everton to an end. The 28-year-old striker, who has 71 goals in 274 appearances for the Toffees, will undergo a medical at Thorp Arch before finalising the deal. This move marks Leeds’ eighth signing of the summer as they prepare for their return to football’s top flight.
From Sheffield to Goodison Glory
Calvert-Lewin began his career with Sheffield United before joining Everton in 2016 for £1.5m. Over nearly a decade at Goodison Park, he became known for his aerial dominance, link-up play, and big-game goals. His Everton record includes:
- 274 total appearances, 71 goals.
- 213 Premier League games, 51 goals.
- FA Cup and EFL Cup runs where he scored decisive goals.
Internationally, he has 11 caps for England, scoring four times, though his last appearance came in 2021.
Injury Challenges and Everton Exit – Dominic Calvert-Lewin
The past few seasons have been injury-hit for Calvert-Lewin, missing 529 days since the 2021/22 season due to various injuries. Last term yielded just three goals in all competitions. Despite Everton offering a new contract, he chose to move on when his deal expired in June 2025.
In an emotional Instagram post, he wrote:
“This isn’t something I chose lightly. Everton has been my home since I was 19 years old… shaped me both as a footballer and as a man.”
Leeds United’s Striker Solution – Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Leeds had targeted Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz earlier in the window, but with Atalanta’s £34.5m bid and Fulham’s reluctance to sell to a Premier League rival, the move collapsed. Calvert-Lewin, initially considered “difficult” to secure, became Leeds’ priority.
This signing adds valuable top-flight experience to Daniel Farke’s squad, bolstering an attack that already includes summer recruit Lukas Nmecha. Leeds have been active in the market following their Championship title win, aiming to secure survival in their Premier League return.
Leeds United 2025 Summer Signings
Player | From | Fee |
---|---|---|
Anton Stach | Hoffenheim | £17.4m |
Sebastiaan Bornauw | Wolfsburg | £5.1m |
Lukas Nmecha | Wolfsburg | Free |
Jaka Bijol | Udinese | £15m |
Gabriel Gudmundsson | Lille | £10m |
Sean Longstaff | Newcastle | £12m |
Lucas Perri | Lyon | £15.6m |
Dominic Calvert-Lewin | Everton | Free (pending medical) |
For full squad details and club updates, visit the Leeds United official site.
Tactical Fit and Risk Factor – Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Calvert-Lewin’s physical presence offers Leeds a focal point in attack, something they have lacked in recent seasons. His ability to win aerial duels, hold up the ball, and finish in the box could be crucial in tight games.
However, his injury record in recent years means fitness management will be essential if Leeds are to get the best from their new signing.
What This Means for Everton
Losing a long-serving striker for free is a blow, particularly for a club that scored just 40 Premier League goals last season. Everton now face the challenge of replacing his experience and leadership both on and off the pitch.
What’s Next?
Barring any medical issues, Calvert-Lewin is expected to be unveiled before the weekend. He could even make his debut against former club Everton in Leeds’ Premier League opener on August 18, adding extra intrigue to the fixture. Leeds fans will be eager to see if he can rekindle his best form and help fire the club to safety.