Pundit can’t believe Dele Alli at Everton as deal close
Noel Whelan has suggested Dele Alli’s lack of “desire” could be the reason for him failing to capitalise on his Everton “lifeline”.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted “people will be scratching their heads forever” about the 26-year-old’s “decline”.
According to the Daily Mail (19 August), Besiktas are eager to sign Alli this week and Everton are willing to sanction a deal – despite only signing the midfielder in January.
The former Tottenham star has made just 13 appearances (including one start) for Frank Lampard’s side.
His old side are due payment of £10million when Alli makes 20 appearances for the Merseysiders.
Alli’s best return came in the 2016-17 campaign – when he notched 22 goals and 13 assists in 50 outings.
Whelan suggested the England international only has himself to blame after failing to explode at Goodison Park.
He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “He was given this lifeline, this opportunity – and he hasn’t taken it.
“People will be scratching their heads forever about the demise of Dele Alli. How can anyone decline so quickly?
“For me, I think he’s lost his desire for football.
“That’s a real shame, because when he’s on his top-quality best form – he can change games.
“To see him go overseas now to try and reignite that form and that love for the game, you just hope it clicks for him and he can do that.”
Football Insider revealed on Friday (19 August) that Everton are in advanced talks with Ajax star Mohamed Kudus as they look to bolster their midfield.
The Toffees have also completed the signing of Dwight McNeil this summer.
In other news, Everton star told to quit Goodison Park after behind-the-scenes latest – ‘it’s time to go’.