Sean Dyche is preparing to assess Dele Alli before deciding whether Everton will use him this season.
That’s according to the Liverpool Echo, who claim the Toffees boss is yet to make a decision on the midfielder’s future at the club.
Dele joined Everton from Tottenham Hotspur in January 2022 on an initial free transfer that could rise to £40 million if certain benchmarks are met.
The 27-year-old failed to impress following his move to Merseyside and was soon shipped off to Besiktas on loan, where his misery continued.
While it looked extremely likely Dele would be moved on once again this summer, reports have claimed that Dyche could keep him if he can prove himself.
Dele – who was one of the first to arrive for pre-season training this week – will have the next month or so to show his worth to the club, though his performances would have to outweigh the £10m the Toffees will have to pay Spurs if he plays a further seven league games.
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Given Everton’s current financial problems, it would be a surprise to see them allow Dele to reach 20 appearances unless he was back to his very best.
Dele Alli will never reach his potential for Everton
Dele Alli was once one of the most exciting young players in the world as he shone in his first few years at Spurs.
However, his career has rapidly crumbled and it really doesn’t look like he is ever going to rediscover that form.
Fans had hoped that a move to Goodison Park would help him find his feet again, but his lack of confidence and the increasing pressure on his shoulders has caused him to completely lose himself.
Dele would be grateful for another chance under Dyche, however it certainly doesn’t seem worth it if it is going to cost them dearly.
The Toffees need to accept defeat and offload him before they start having to cough up the cash for a player who is past it at only 27 years old.