Calvert-Lewin kicking himself as ambitious Sunderland approach made
Sunderland’s summer transfer window has rocked the entire football world so far.
The Black Cats are proving that they’re not simply just here to make up the numbers, but they will also try their very best to avoid being relegated from the Premier League.
Marc Guiu looks as though he is set to become the latest arrival at the Stadium of Light, with the 19-year-old Spaniard tasked with bolstering Regis Le Bris’ forward line.
At one stage, this responsibility looked as though it might have fallen on the shoulders of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, but this no longer appears to be the case.
Calvert-Lewin turns down Sunderland’s ‘ambitious’ approach
Following some of Sunderland’s pre-season fixtures, it is evident that a new striker should be their priority following the struggles of Eliezer Mayenda.
According to reports from talkSPORT (5 August), “Sunderland made an ambitious play” for Calvert-Lewin, who is currently a free agent after being released by Everton.
Calvert-Lewin, 28, was offered a Premier League lifeline by Sunderland in the north-east, but the striker reportedly turned down the approach in the hope that a club that is likely to finish higher up the table comes in for him, with Sunderland moving on to Guiu.
Calvert-Lewin’s Premier League goals each season:
- 2024/25 – 3
- 2023/24 – 7
- 2022/23 – 2
- 2021/22 – 5
The former England international’s best days truly look to be in the rear-view mirror as he has struggled with his fitness and form in recent years.
Relegation battling rivals Leeds United were also said to be interested in the player, but were put off by his wage demands.
Le Bris still needs more experience up top
After seeing all the ambitious signings come through the door at the Stadium of Light, Calvert-Lewin will undoubtedly be kicking himself that he did not accept Sunderland’s offer, considering he is still without a club.
Perhaps the Black Cats dodged a bullet given his recent goal record, but despite the imminent arrival of Guiu, Le Bris’ squad still needs more experience up front.
Despite Guiu being dubbed ‘the next Luis Suarez’, relying on a 19-year-old heavily next season is risky business.
Le Bris’ likely striker options next season and their age:
- Marc Guiu – 19
- Eliezer Mayenda – 20
- Wilson Isidor – 24
Even with Calvert-Lewin’s move now looking unlikely, it may be worth it for Kristjaan Speakman and Co. to continue to evaluate the free agent market for strikers.
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