Everton’s hierarchy was left furious at speculation over Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s future ahead of the crucial tie with Burnley.
A national magazine reported rumours he was close to a deal with Arsenal in an interview with the striker. The suggestion, published amid preparations for Everton’s crucial tie with Burnley, sparked anger among club officials, the ECHO understands.
Calvert-Lewin was the subject of a feature with the magazine GQ in which he discussed his Sheffield upbringing and Everton career alongside his approach to fashion. The 25-year-old, sidelined through injury for much of this season after scoring in each of Everton’s first three league games, also spoke of his desire to win trophies.
In the wake of Everton’s recent FA Cup defeat at Crystal Palace, he told GQ : “I am a competitor and I don’t like losing… We have a great group of lads but recently, especially at Palace, the morale was poor I think due to the fact that we had let the manager, the fans and the club down.”
He added: “Eventually I want to win major trophies and be a part of the next World Cup squad and I know my performances in the near future are going to be pivotal in getting me to that position.”
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The article reported speculation Calvert-Lewin was on the “brink” of a summer move to Arsenal.
The ECHO understands that frustrated senior officials at Everton, who feared it could disrupt preparations for the match at Burnley.
Despite recent speculation, it is understood Everton have received no contact from Arsenal over Calvert-Lewin, who played the full 90 minutes as the Blues fell to a late defeat that leaves them just one point above the relegation zone.
