Once considered an English prodigy Dele Alli has been trending in the transfer market as the midfielder will be open for a ‘loan’ move. Alli was once considered amongst the top midfielders of the world and was renowned for his creative mastery. He has been with Spurs and was at his peak in the 16-17 season wherein in the 37 games he played in the Premier League, he scored 18 goals and gave 9 assists. Alli’s form has dipped over the past couple of years since the departure of Mauricio Pochenttino which has made him only a part-time player for the Spurs.
There are multiple Premier League clubs interested in making a move for Alli namely Newcastle United, Brighton, Burnley, and Everton but the Magpies are leading the chase to sign the midfield maestro.
What makes Magpies the top contender in the chase is that Dele Alli has gone on the record to shower Newcastle fans with praise, which added fuel to the fire surrounding his uncertainty at Spurs. In August 2018, Alli scored the winner at St. James Park in a 2-1 victory on the opening day of the Premier League. After the match, he spoke very highly of the Magpies fans terming them ‘unbelievable’. He said, “It was very tough. Newcastle is a difficult place to come. Newcastle have got unbelievable fans, it is an atmosphere that is not too nice to play in but we knew the job we had to do.”
In 2020, Alli opened up about a failed move to Newcastle when he still played for MK Dons. He revealed he was ‘angry’ to miss out on an opportunity to play for Newcastle before Spurs swooped and signed him.
According to The Guardian, Eddie Howe could re-route his attacking midfielder priority to Dele Alli if they fail to sign Jesse Lingard. Toon hero Alan Shearer does punditry work and after the 0-0 draw against Liverpool, he said, “I was really impressed with Dele Alli today. Nuno didn’t fancy him, Jose didn’t fancy him. Alisson pulled off an unbelievable save, but he got in there all afternoon. Driving forward, with the ball, or offering options. Timing of the runs was perfect. He was an England regular, he has got to keep getting that chance – and be consistent”.
It would be a welcome move for the Magpies as they receive a ‘forgotten maestro’ and it seems Alli would also prefer Newcastle over other clubs.
