Report: Tottenham were left ‘surprised’ by Everton’s offer to sign Dele Alli

Tottenham were reportedly left surprised by Everton’s offer to sign Dele Alli on deadline day, according to The Athletic. 

Alli completed a switch to the Toffees in the final moments of the transfer window, capping off what was a busy day of movement at Tottenham. 

Spurs allegedly previously said they were open to any offers for the 25-year-old in January (Sky Sports), which later prompted Newcastle to try and hijack Everton’s proposal with a late loan offer (Independent). 

But Everton, under the new guidance of Frank Lampard, managed to complete the permanent transfer of Alli, which brought an end to his seven-year stint in North London. 

However, The Athletic claim that Tottenham were left ‘surprised but satisfied’ at being able to offload Dele, who was surplus to requirements, on a permanent deal.

With Everton already hitting the loan quota through moves for Anwar El Ghazi and Donny van de Beek, they were left little option but to pursue a permanent purchase. 

The report states the deal, which could reach up to £40 million in total, sees Alli move to Merseyside on an initial free transfer before Everton split with any cash. 

Spurs are set to receive £10 million once the England international reaches 20 appearances for the club, while the full value could be paid if he plays 80 games and meets other performance-related bonuses. 

Spurs Web Opinion 

On the face of it, Tottenham won’t receive anything for Alli for a little while. But if things go well and he clocks up the appearances, it could be a good deal in the end for both Spurs and Alli, who needed a fresh move like this for himself. 

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