Dele Alli might be back in action this season
Everton are in negotiations with Tottenham Hotspur about Dele Alli’s future as they support his recovery from injury. The 28-year-old is training at Finch Farm after a groin issue kept him off the pitch last season.
Despite his current out-of-contract status, the terms of his transfer from Tottenham to Merseyside complicate Everton’s efforts to offer him a new deal. The ECHO reports that both clubs are discussing the possibility of revising the original agreement.
If successful, Dele might have a chance to prove his worth during pre-season.
These negotiations follow a series of discussions about the player. Last season, when Dele seemed close to returning after surgery, the terms of his January 2022 transfer complicated efforts to assist his recovery due to potential payments required if he hit performance milestones. However, these concerns became moot after a setback in his groin injury during training ultimately prevented him from playing last season.
Dele Alli faces a crucial period as he tries to resurrect his Everton career. He nearly returned from injury at the end of last season but has yet to play under Sean Dyche.
Alli has spent the summer working hard at Finch Farm, participating in training camps in Portugal and London to build his fitness. Everton have fully supported his rehabilitation, and Dyche reportedly rates the former Tottenham Hotspur player highly.
Speaking last November, Dyche said, “You forget that he has experienced some really big things in football. He’s played in a Champions League final, he’s played in a World Cup semi-final. These are amazing things he’s experienced.”
Dyche added, “People, sometimes, lose sight of that. I’m not accusing anyone of anything, that’s just the way it is. He’s worked with some really big managers, very good managers with interesting ways of playing. Why wouldn’t I go: ‘Dele what’s your thoughts?’ I trust these players.”
Whether Dele gets a chance to impress Dyche further depends on the outcome of talks between Everton and Spurs. If an agreement can be reached, it could open the door for Dele to earn a new deal at Goodison Park.