Credit: Imago

Aheed Abrar

Wed 30 July 2025 13:10, UK

Leeds United have been looking to strengthen their attack this transfer window, with Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin emerging as a target.

The 28-year-old left the Toffees at the end of last season after his contract expired and is available as a free agent.

Calvert-Lewin has been linked with a move to Elland Road as he presents an opportunity for the Whites to bolster their forward line without paying a transfer fee.

It doesn’t look like Daniel Farke will have the ex-Everton star at his disposal next season after his seemingly exorbitant wage demands.

Leeds United told to pay 150k a week for Calvert-Lewin transfer

Leeds backed off from signing Calvert-Lewin this summer due to his wage demands, Alex Crook says.

The talkSPORT journalist revealed that the English centre-forward is looking for 150k a week from his next club after leaving the Merseyside outfit.

Alan Brazil was visibly left shocked by the 28-year-old’s request from the Elland Road hierarchy, and couldn’t believe what he was being told.

Speaking on talkSPORT (30 July), Crook said: “I was told that Calvert-Lewin is looking for 150k a week. Which is why he held talks with Leeds and they backed off.

Brazil responded: “No. 150k a week?”

Farke doesn’t need Calvert-Lewin at Leeds

Calvert-Lewin’s consistent fitness issues at Everton make him a gamble for Leeds.

Hamstring injuries have been a persistent issue for the England international over the years.

At the start of 2025, the 28-year-old picked up a knock and was out for around three months, and this has been a trend for him in recent seasons.

Leeds now have Artem Dovbyk on their radar, and the Ukrainian striker feels like a better option for Farke at Elland Road.

While the Whites could arguably do with reinforcements in the number nine position, Calvert-Lewin isn’t needed in LS11, especially considering his wage demands.

Mateo Joseph and Patrick Bamford’s futures at the West Yorkshire outfit are uncertain, and they will definitely be in the market to strengthen their team in the coming weeks.

The ex-Everton striker’s goalscoring contributions from last season don’t warrant such financial terms, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up next.

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