Jul 16, 2022; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin (9) dribbles as Arsenal forward William Saliba (12) defends during the Charm City International Friendly at M&T Stadium. Arsenal defeated Everton 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

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Aston Villa Enter Race To Sign Free Agent Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Despite a modest return of three goals in 26 appearances last season, Calvert-Lewin remains an attractive option due to his experience.

Aston Villa have emerged as the latest club interested in signing former Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who is currently available on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract at the end of last season. The 28-year-old striker is also attracting interest from AC Milan and Newcastle United, with a decision on his next move expected in the coming weeks.

According to reports from The Sun, Villa have approached Calvert-Lewin’s representatives to discuss his salary expectations as Unai Emery looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of the 2025-26 campaign. The club lost both Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio following the conclusion of their loan spells, leaving a void up front that Villa are eager to address.

🚨 Aston Villa are set to rival AC Milan and Newcastle for striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

He's a free agent after leaving Everton.

(Source: Sun Sport) pic.twitter.com/7CkfVuNsCA
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 28, 2025

Aston Villa View Calvert-Lewin as a Cost-Effective Solution

Calvert-Lewin suffered a hamstring injury at the end of last season that kept him out for 14 games. Despite a modest return of three goals in 26 appearances last season, Calvert-Lewin remains an attractive option due to his Premier League experience and status as a free agent. Notably, Villa manager Unai Emery sees him as a cost-effective solution.

The lanky forward’s career has been hampered by a number of lengthy spells on the sidelines due to injuries. The England international left Everton as their third-highest goalscorer in the Premier League with 71 goals in 273 appearances in all competitions.

So far, Villa’s summer business has been relatively quiet. The club has only added goalkeeper Marco Bizot from Stade Brestois and teenage defender Yasin Ozcan from Turkish side Kasimpasa. Adding Calvert-Lewin could also serve as a contingency plan in case of late transfer window moves for current star striker Ollie Watkins, who has been linked with both Manchester United and Newcastle. Calvert-Lewin’s potential arrival could offer the Villans valuable experience and depth in attack.

Aston Villa

Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Premier League

Premier League 2025-26

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.