Newcastle United could face competition from Southampton or Brighton & Hove Albion in any last-ditch attempt to sign Dele Alli from Tottenham Hotspur in a January loan transfer.
That’s according to The Telegraph, who now note Southampton have expressed an interest in a deal for the England maestro. Brighton Technical Director Dan Ashworth is also keeping close tabs on his situation in north London. Some unnamed sides in Germany are also keen.
Ashworth knows what Alli can give Graham Potter in a move to the Amex Stadium from his time with England. The Seagulls executive was the Three Lions’ Director of Development before moving to the south coast in 2019. He held a role in the England fold for five-years.
Alli broke into the England senior side during Ashworth’s time with the Three Lions. The 25-year-old debuted under Roy Hodgson in 2015 and made all but six of his 37-caps before he joined Brighton. Alli has not represented his county in any competition since June 2019.
But Southampton are also exploring what Tottenham would demand to grant a half-season loan transfer for Alli. Spurs are likely to want his in excess of £100k-a-week wage covered in full. But their position could change, as Antonio Conte is looking to move the midfielder on.
Newcastle in talks with Tottenham over Alli loan transfer
The Telegraph reported on Monday that Newcastle are in talks with Tottenham over a loan transfer for Alli. Eddie Howe is keen to add another creative option to his attack in the final week of the window. The Evening Standard also note Alli has already said some goodbyes.
Alli said farewell to some staff at Spurs’ Hotspur Way training ground as Conte has given his squad a few days off. The midfielder is not currently close to securing a move, but wished to thank staff in case the north Londoners agree his exit before returning at the weekend.
Conte will not stand in Alli’s way, having only deployed the Milton Keynes-born playmaker in three Premier League games. He also only started two of his outings and has not played since December 28. Conte even omitted Alli from the Spurs squad at Chelsea last Sunday.
Alli had shown signs of a resurgence toward the end of last season under interim boss Ryan Mason. Newcastle, Southampton or Brighton would be banking on Alli rediscovering that form if they agree a late window loan transfer with Tottenham before Monday’s deadline.
“Dele was excellent [against Wolves],” Mason said, via quotes by the Independent. “I don’t really like singling out players but it’s hard not to because I’m sure everyone felt it.
“He ran, he competed, he pressed, he created opportunities. I’m sure he’s disappointed not to get a goal himself. It was an excellent No10 performance. I’m really, really pleased.”
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
