The Athletic’s David Ornstein has shared his “gut instinct” on whether Dele Alli will be given a chance at Everton beyond the summer.
Evertonians saw the 28-year-old on their screens on Monday evening alongside Jamie Carragher on Monday Night Football.
Of course, seeing the 28-year-old in a good place after his difficulties over the past year was encouraging. Compared to when he spoke to Gary Neville last year, Alli appears to be engaged and eager to return to the fold at Goodison Park.
Whether he will be afforded that chance remains a question.
What has David Ornstein said about Dele Alli’s future at Everton?
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Alli’s contract is up in the summer, and with the former Spurs star unlikely to feature again this season, questions have been raised over his long-term future at Goodison Park.
Writing in his latest Athletic Q&A, Ornstein revealed what he thinks will happen to Alli upon the expiration of his deal in June. He explained: “I don’t know if it will be at Everton… gut instinct says it won’t be because his contract expires this summer, and he hasn’t really been able to justify a new one (that’s before we mention Everton’s financial situation and whether they could afford it).
“But if Dele gets fully fit, I’m sure many opportunities will come his way — and then it’s up to him to reinvigorate his career.”
Everton have now saved £10million on Dele Alli deal
After joining the club in a deal that could’ve reached £40million back in January 2022, Alli has had to make do with limited opportunities. He moved to Goodison Park to get his career back on track; it couldn’t have gone much worse.
However, after his appearance on Monday Night Football, the Blues have saved themselves some cash.
As part of the transfer agreement, Everton were set to pay Tottenham £10million should the 28-year-old make 20 league appearances. Thus far, Alli has just 13 appearances to his name.
After his appearance on TV on Monday evening, the maximum number of appearances he can amass is 19.
It’s hard to envisage a new contract being negotiated. Considering his injury woes, handing Alli a lifeline at Goodison Park would feel financially foolish. A fresh challenge feels like the best move as he looks to reinvigorate his stuttering career.