Everton have opened talks with Dominic Calvert-Lewin over a new contract.
Calvert-Lewin’s existing deal is set to expire next summer and the striker is attracting interest from Premier League rivals ahead of the transfer window.
Newcastle were recently credited with exploring a move for the England international while Arsenal have previously been tipped as potential suitors.
But despite director of football Kevin Thelwell’s admission that players will need to be sold, the Blues are determined to tie down Calvert-Lewin’s future.
The 27-year-old appears to have finally banished his long-standing injury issues after making 38 appearances last season – his most since 2020/21.
Goodison Park chiefs have already offered captain Seamus Coleman and Ashley Young the option of new deals while extending Idrissa Gueye’s stay.
An option to prolong Gueye’s contract by a further 12 months was taken up after the midfield played a key role in Sean Dyche’s side avoiding relegation.
Everton, meanwhile, remain determined to hold onto several key players, including Calvert-Lewin, despite ongoing uncertainty over the club’s future.
The deadline for 777 Partners’ proposed takeover is set to expire at 5am UK time on Saturday with the eight-month saga expected to draw to a close.
Farhad Moshiri recently revealed that he had received several unsolicited approaches from rival parties, which will likely be explored after Saturday.