Rafa Benitez’s start to life at Everton has already been one full of excitement and intrigue.
A whopping £55m move for Ben White may be on the cards but they’re also in danger of losing their prized asset.
What’s the word?
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has already attracted the eyes of Real Madrid and Manchester United in recent months but he’s now facing further interest.
According to Turkish journalist, Ekrem Konur, Champions League winners Chelsea are seeking a potential deal this summer.
He revealed on Twitter: “Dissatisfied with Tammy Abraham and Batshuayi, Tuchel asked for the transfer of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, with the exception of Erling Haaland. There have been no formal talks with Everton yet but talks are expected to begin soon.”
After Man United reportedly made an enquiry for his services earlier this year, Everton slapped a mighty £80m asking price on his head.
Massive blow
It goes without saying that this would be an almighty blow early into Benitez’s reign at Goodison Park.
Calvert-Lewin enjoyed his best campaign of his career in 2020/21, beating the goalkeeper on 21 occasions in the royal blue of Everton.
It was form that earned him a call-up to the ongoing European Championships where the Three Lions have reached the semi-finals.
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Calvert-Lewin has been restricted to two substitute appearances but there is no denying the qualities he possesses.
The striker isn’t just a goal scorer but he acts as a target man who is capable of bringing others into play with great regularity.
The primary task for Benitez, as it has been with others in the hot seat, is to get the Toffees into Champions League.
Without Calvert-Lewin, you’d fear for their potential of even reaching the Europa League. Not since Romelu Lukaku have Everton had such a regular scorer in their side.
No other player reached double figures for the club in the league last term, which goes to show the extent at which he’d be missed.
To lose him to Premier League rivals would also be a bitter blow. Benitez may have been promised money to spend but the hierarchy will do him no favours by selling Everton’s star man.