Manchester United Pass on Dominic Calvert-Lewin Due to Injury Concerns

In a significant development for both Manchester United and striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the Premier League club has decided not to pursue a potential signing of the forward following concerns regarding his injury history. Calvert-Lewin, who recently departed Everton after his contract expired at the end of June 2025, was reportedly pushed towards Manchester United by various intermediaries after his release. However, influential figures within the club have identified his persistent injury issues as a 'major red flag', leading to the decision to halt any further engagement.

Calvert-Lewin, 28, has struggled with fitness throughout recent seasons, managing only 27 appearances across all competitions during the 2024-2025 campaign, raising alarm bells for the Red Devils as they seek to bolster their attacking options ahead of the upcoming season. According to an official statement from Manchester United's management, the club aims to secure a forward with a proven track record in the Premier League.

Despite the interest in Calvert-Lewin, the club's focus has shifted towards Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo, having made multiple unsuccessful bids amounting to £62.5 million. Head coach Ruben Amorim continues to prioritize Mbeumo, insisting on finding a resolution despite Brentford's resistance to part with the player. Phil Giles, Brentford's director of football, has emphasized that Mbeumo is open to remaining at the Gtech Community Stadium should a deal not materialize.

The Red Devils' transfer strategy has seen them recently secure Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers with a lucrative contract worth £200,000 per week, reflecting their ambition to enhance their squad. However, the club’s reluctance to engage further with Calvert-Lewin is a telling indicator of their cautious approach towards players with injury histories.

Football analyst Dr. Laura Thompson, a sports medicine expert at the University of Manchester, expressed concern over the trend of clubs signing players with extensive injury records, stating, "Injuries can significantly impact a player's performance, and clubs must weigh the potential risks against the benefits. Manchester United's decision to pass on Calvert-Lewin seems prudent given his recent struggles."

Calvert-Lewin, who has earned 11 caps for the England national team, is now assessing his options as he seeks to reignite his career, potentially exploring opportunities within the Premier League or abroad. While the forward's capabilities have been lauded by many, including Sky Sports journalist Pete Graves, who described him as 'exceptional', his injury concerns remain a significant hurdle in securing a new deal.

As Manchester United navigates its transfer strategy, the implications of their decisions will be closely scrutinized as they aim to return to the forefront of English football following a disappointing season devoid of silverware and European qualification. The club's future direction remains uncertain as they balance immediate needs with long-term sustainability in player health and performance.

In conclusion, while Manchester United has opted not to pursue Dominic Calvert-Lewin, their focus on other targets like Bryan Mbeumo indicates an active effort to enhance their attacking lineup without compromising on player health. The upcoming months will reveal whether this strategy pays dividends for the Red Devils as they seek to regain their competitive edge in the Premier League.