Dele Alli linked with shock deadline day move that no-one saw coming

Former Tottenham midfielder Dele Alli has been linked with a shock deadline day move.

Alli is out of contract, but Everton are allowing him to train with them at their training base as Sean Dyche has hinted the player could be offered a deal.

The 28-year-old did not play at all last season as he bravely opened up about his upbringing as a child.

But, according to French outlet La Voix Des Dogues, Alli has been offered a career lifeline.

The report claims Lille have shown an interest in signing the former England international.

If Alli joined Lille, he wouldn't be the only English player on their books as they boast the services of Angel Gomes, who was called up Lee Carsley's England squad for next month's international fixtures.

The ex-Milton Keynes Dons star continues to train at Everton despite his contract expiring at the end of the 2023/24 campaign.

Speaking ahead of the new season, Dyche said: "He is not ready to play yet, he has not played in a long time."

Dele Alli has been training at Everton but is a free agent. Image: Getty

Asked if Alli was keen to stay at the Goodison Park outfit, Dyche said: "Well we haven't gone down that road yet because he's not ready to play yet. You have to be able to play to know what the future holds."

The 53-year-old also confirmed that the attacking midfielder would be considered for behind-closed-doors games before a decision was made on his return to the club.

Before his presser, the Everton boss said he wouldn't be throwing Alli back in at the deep end after so long without competitive football under his belt.

"Don’t forget he’s hardly had any actual football, as in games, for a long time," he explained.

"There is a games programme still, as well. It’s not just a case of getting fit and running around with the first-team group, then he needs games, so therefore a games programme has got to come next.

"When you’ve been out that long you need a period of building up and getting to true fitness. That could take three or four games. It’s a bit like an extended pre-season, let’s say."