Lifeline for injury-ravaged Dele Alli? ‘Cesc Fabregas likes him a lot’ as Como chief delivers update on Serie A contract bid from ex-Tottenham & Everton star

Former England international Dele has not made a competitive appearance of any kind since February 2023, during a forgettable loan spell at Turkish outfit Besiktas. Injury problems have seen his once promising career grind to a halt.

Dele is currently a free agent after reaching the end of his contract at Everton in the summer of 2024 – although he has continued to train with the Toffees while recovering from surgery and suffering more untimely fitness setbacks.

The 28-year-old was spotted in the stands when Como faced Roma in Serie A – along with Hollywood stars Keira Knightley and Michael Fassbender – leading to suggestions that he will be offered an opportunity to train with the Italian side and stake a claim for a permanent deal.

Como’s sporting director, Ludi, has told TMW Radio of what the immediate future holds for Dele: “In ideal conditions, he’s of interest to everyone. We have an excellent relationship with his agent, and something interesting could develop, but we can’t know for sure yet.

“We need a few weeks, including time to get to know each other, and then we’ll make the best decision. A percentage? It’s too early to say. We’ll go through a period of training and mutual understanding, but Fabregas likes him a lot.”

Ex-Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea midfielder Febregas is now calling the shots at Como, with the World Cup winner guiding them to promotion into the Italian top-flight last season. He may be willing to take a gamble on Dele, with there no doubting the former Spurs star’s ability when fully fit and playing with confidence.