Everton have initiated contact with Tottenham to discuss a compromise regarding Dele Alli’s move to Goodison Park, according to Sean Dyche. The midfielder left north London in a complicated free transfer agreement, with the Toffees required to fork out sizeable fees once certain conditions are met.
Spurs are due the first £10million when Alli crosses 20 appearances for Everton. The 27-year-old has made only 13 in almost two years on Merseyside, but the club’s dire financial situation means that they may prefer to steer clear of playing him.
Dyche does not have that dilemma at present, with Alli still weeks away from being match fit. The former Milton Keynes Dons youth prospect has been out of action since March with a muscle tear, during which time he spent six weeks in rehab for addiction issues.
Alli at his best would be a huge asset for Everton as they attempt to stave off Premier League relegation for a second successive season.
As a result, Dyche confirmed that tentative talks have already begun as the Toffees look to find a solution with Spurs. “[Director of football] Kev [Thelwell] has had a couple of phone calls just lightly in the background, [asking Tottenham] where do you see it? But nothing has changed at the moment,” he said.
“I must make it clear he is on the grass but still a long way from being fit, he is not training with us he is with the sports science staff. He is just really getting back to where he was.
If the independent commission concurs with the Premier League, the punishment could be applied this season, leaving Everton in an even more precarious position with regard to their top-flight status.
Dyche and co have built up a five-point buffer above the relegation zone with 10 matches played, and they will attempt to further secure their position when Brighton visit Goodison Park on Saturday.
