Dominic Calvert-Lewin rejects Sunderland as new transfer now fully agreed
Sunderland’s transfer pull this summer has been immense as they have attracted many European talents.
The Mackems secured the signing of former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka in a statement signing and have most recently signed Omar Alderete from Getafe.
Regis Le Bris‘ spending isn’t expected to stop there as the Black Cats continue to look to strengthen their defence and attack.
However, Sunderland have now had some disappointment of their own, with former Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin turning them down in favour of a move elsewhere.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin chooses Leeds over Sunderland
For the most part, this summer, Sunderland have gotten the better of their rivals, Leeds.
The Mackems secured the signings of Noah Sadiki and Habib Diarra after the pair were close to a move to West Yorkshire.
However, Leeds have gotten some revenge of their own by beating Sunderland to the signature of Calvert-Lewin.
As reported by Ben Jacobs via X on Wednesday, 13 August, the striker turned down a move to Sunderland prior to agreeing terms with Leeds.
Calvert-Lewin’s Premier League goals each season:
- 2024/25 – 3
- 2023/24 – 7
- 2022/23 – 2
- 2021/22 – 5
Le Bris has been looking for added competition up front, with Marc Guiu and Wilson Isidor both approaching their first full seasons in the top-flight.
However, while the Mackems will be disappointed to miss out on one of their targets to a direct rival, they look to have dodged a bullet by not signing Calvert-Lewin.
Calvert-Lewin’s injury record will damage Leeds
Calvert-Lewin’s injury record was a worry for supporters when Sunderland were linked with the striker.
- Calvert-Lewin has missed more than 100 games across his career due to injury
- The striker missed 15 games due to injury last season
The Mackems can’t afford to be paying the wages for someone who is constantly sidelined through injury.
In a season where Le Bris will be relying on plenty of goals, an unprolific and injury-prone Calvert-Lewin would’ve stunted their progress.
However, Sunderland could still benefit from a strong striker up front, who could retain possession well against sides where they will have less of the ball.
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