United and Everton Locked in Duel for “Bargain of the Summer” as Romano Hints at Impending Deal
Manchester United are closing in on one of the most intriguing transfer stories of the summer—a competition with Everton over a player being widely tipped as the “bargain of the summer.” Expert Fabrizio Romano has indicated that a decision could come in the “next days”, sparking fresh excitement around Old Trafford. All the signs point to Dominic Calvert‑Lewin—a free agent and former Toffees striker—as the potential prize in this cross-club chase.
The Player in Focus: Dominic Calvert‑Lewin
- Free Agent Status & Experience
Calvert‑Lewin, 28, left Everton when his contract expired, making him an immediately available signing—no transfer fee required. He’s no stranger to Premier League football, having scored 71 goals across 273 appearances for the Merseyside club (TalkSport, ManchesterWorld). - United Interest Confirmed
According to talkSPORT, United are seriously considering the ex-Everton man as a cost‑effective solution to their striker woes (The Sun). Romano backed this up, stating on his YouTube channel that Calvert‑Lewin is “open and excited” at the prospect of joining United—though, at present, formal negotiations have yet to begin (ManchesterWorld). - Why the Label “Bargain of the Summer”?
For a club cash‑strapped and shying away from blockbuster spending, Calvert‑Lewin’s free transfer status is key. United are already in deep negotiations for Bryan Mbeumo (£65m) and have spent £62.5m on Matheus Cunha. Calvert‑Lewin represents strong league experience at zero upfront cost (The Scottish Sun, The Sun).
Everton Rivalry: A Clash of Interests
Word is Everton themselves are eyeing other targets, notably Villarreal’s Thierno Barry (£27.5m fee), who is undergoing a medical in Merseyside. His arrival would further lean Everton’s strategy toward youth and long‑term planning, rather than reinvesting in Calvert‑Lewin—creating an opening United could seize (Royal Blue Mersey).
Despite Everton’s need to strengthen their attack, Calvert‑Lewin’s wages have been known to deter clubs. But United’s offer of European football and a competitive project—and Everton’s limited transfer budget—suggest a genuine tug‑of‑war may yet unfold.
United’s Overall Transfer Strategy
United are pursuing a layered approach this summer:
- Striker Recruitment
The club added Matheus Cunha and are negotiating for Bryan Mbeumo. Calvert‑Lewin or other free agents like Jamie Vardy and Callum Wilson offer depth options should primary deals fall through (TEAMtalk, The Sun). - Central Defensive Reinforcement
Jarrad Branthwaite—an Everton centre‑back—has reportedly agreed personal terms with United, although Everton’s asking price (£65–70m) remains a sticking point. United may opt for alternatives if negotiations drag on (TEAMtalk). - Other Key Targets
United are linked with PSG’s Manuel Ugarte (£45–51m) and Bayern’s Matthijs de Ligt as part of a wider strategy to reshape multiple areas of the squad (TEAMtalk, ca.sports.yahoo.com). - Financial Prudence Under Ratcliffe
New minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and sporting director Dan Ashworth are overseeing a project with a clear FFP-conscious structure—prioritizing value and smarter spending over marquee moves (TEAMtalk).
What Romano Has Said
Fabrizio Romano has been consistent in his messaging:
- Calvert‑Lewin has been “offered” to Manchester United, with the 28-year-old reportedly keen on the move and excited by the prospect—though no formal talks have finalised yet (ManchesterWorld).
- The club is “closing in” on the Matheus Cunha transfer, with personal terms agreed and final details awaiting resolution “in the next days” (Football365).
- On Branthwaite: personal terms reportedly secured, but Everton’s valuation remains high and United are ready to walk away if the deal isn’t right (TEAMtalk).
⚽ What the Move Could Mean
For Manchester United, landing Calvert‑Lewin:
- Offers affordable Premier League experience without a transfer fee.
- Adds depth amid uncertainty over Rasmus Højlund’s form.
- Supports the club’s broader cost-conscious recruitment plan.
For Everton, losing Calvert‑Lewin could push them further toward regeneration—with Barry already lined up—and signal a strategic leaning for younger talent.
For Calvert‑Lewin personally, United offer European football, a storied platform, and the chance to reignite his career outside of Everton’s relegation constraints.
✅ Conclusion: Is This the Bargain of the Summer?
If Manchester United manage to sign Calvert‑Lewin in the coming days, it would underscore their summer strategy—a blend of smart economy signings and high‑value marquee deals. At £0 in transfer fees and with no youth premium attached, acquiring a proven Premier League striker of his experience would justify the hype of a “bargain of the summer.” Everton remain in the picture as competitors, but financial reality and squad direction may yet tip the balance in United’s favour.
