Kevin Phillips has urged Tottenham to include Dele Alli in any possible deal with Everton for Jordan Pickford.
Tottenham are looking at bringing in a long-term replacement for Hugo Lloris, given the Frenchman’s contract expires at the end of the season. There are many options available in the market, including Dean Henderson or Andre Onana, although Spurs might opt for England no.1 Jordan Pickford as their ideal choice.
Spurs are linked with Pickford over a potential transfer in the summer of next year. However, considering the keeper’s contract at Everton and the massive transfer fee they might demand, former Premier League striker Kevin Phillips has an idea to ease the burden on Tottenham.
Phillips told Football Insider that Spurs should consider including Dele Alli in any possible deal for Pickford, which might work fine in their favour.
Phillips said, “Yes, Alli could be used as part of that deal. That is something the board and powers that be have probably discussed. For me, Dele Alli’s time at Tottenham is up. I have said that for a while now. Even with Conte coming in, I think his time is up.
“The style of play and intensity Conte wants is not suited to Alli’s game. I cannot see him playing much. He could be included in part of the deal for Pickford, and that could be what gets it over the line. I think Conte wants Jordan because of his distribution. It’s exceptional at times. He can ping it with that left foot and drop it straight into centre-forwards.
“Everton could do with an attacking midfielder. It will be interesting to see how that one unfolds.”
Alli has been on a downward spiral for a few seasons and looking at the performances this term, he seems to have lost his magic touch. Many suggested that the playmaker might have peaked early in his career, but in reality, the current Spurs system doesn’t suit him. Hence the club are considering selling him next year.
Since Mauricio Pochettino left the club, neither Jose Mourinho nor Nuno Espirito Santo was able to get the best out of Alli. There might be some hope under Conte, although the attacking midfielder is yet to start a game under the Italian.
