An update has emerged on Newcastle United's pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli...
What's the talk?
According to the Northern Echo, the Magpies' chances of landing the England international in January have diminished, with there now being an expectation that he will remain at Spurs until next summer.
The report claims that Newcastle previously viewed him as a realistic transfer target due to his lack of game time, but they could now abort their plans to sign him.
Save NUFC's season
Nick Hammond has been appointed as a short-term transfer consultant for the club and he must now use his expertise to secure a deal for Alli in January.
He needs to convince Tottenham to part ways with him and then make sure that he is able to offer him a suitable package to go along with whatever pitch Eddie Howe produces to tempt him into making the switch.
The former Reading chief could save Newcastle's season by doing this, as Alli has previously shown that he has the quality to be a difference-maker at this level.
In 266 games for Spurs, he has produced 67 goals and 61 assists. This includes 51 strikes and 37 assists in 180 Premier League matches. The 25-year-old has proven himself in the top-flight of English football and, therefore, would surely come in and provide a lift to the Magpies.
Ex-Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino previously handed him high praise by comparing him to two footballing icons. He said:
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