Dominic Calvert-Lewin is a name that refuses to disappear when it comes to Newcastle United transfer rumours. Fresh reports from The Telegraph namechecked the Everton striker as a “priority” target this summer, with signing a new goal machine believed to be high on the agenda at St James’ Park.
Despite making his first appearance since December from the bench against Manchester City last weekend, Callum Wilson remains the club’s top scorer in 2021-22 with six goals. Signing a superstar striker - who can stay fit throughout the season - could propel Newcastle to new heights next year.
However, is Calvert-Lewin the answer?
The stats may surprise you, given the fact Calvert-Lewin was England captain Harry Kane’s understudy at the Euros a little over a year ago. In six fewer Premier League appearances, Wilson has bagged 11 more goals than the Toffees' talisman. His goals per game ratio is 0.35 - around one in three - whereas Calvert-Lewin’s average is closer to one in four (0.27). One alarming statistic is how Wilson has run 224km further than his counterpart in the top flight, despite playing fewer games.
Eddie Howe’s high-intensity style is more suited to Wilson than the Everton target man, which is no surprise considering the pair shared a fruitful relationship at Bournemouth. Calvert-Lewin does, however, dominate in one department. A sizable 18 of the Everton man’s 43 Premier League goals (42%) were scored with his head, compared to Wilson - who has only netted 11. The 25-year-old’s upper hand in the air is highlighted further when you analyse aerial duels won.
His 661 dwarfs the 208 Wilson has managed in the Premier League, a reflection of the contrasting playing styles of the two strikers. Perhaps Calvert-Lewin’s arrival would be more akin to a Chris Wood replacement after his struggles since joining the Saudi-backed revolution.
DCL v Wilson head-to-head
In terms of goalscoring prowess, Newcastle could spend the quoted £60million on a far superior striker to Calvert-Lewin and a more noticeable upgrade on their current number nine. Wilson has demonstrated a ruthless streak in front of goal but his injury woes mean the Magpies cannot rely on him as first choice going forward.
Benfica’s Darwin Nunez has a similar price tag around his neck while Patrik Schick scored 24 in 26 for Bayer Leverkusen this campaign. Shopping outside the English market should provide the Magpies with better value for money in the transfer market.
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