What’s the story?
Reports all around Europe have stated that both Barcelona and Real Madrid are interested in signing Tottenham star Dele Alli. The 21-year-old midfielder has been in fine form for the Lilywhites this season and now reports in the Daily Star (via Diario Gol) state that the talented Englishman prefers a move to Barcelona over Real Madrid as he would like to play with Lionel Messi.
While Tottenham will be desperate to hold on to their star man, Alli himself said that a move away from Spurs could be possible in the next transfer window.
"You can never say what's going to happen in the future," Alli said.
"No one knows. No one can predict it."
In case you didn’t know...
Tottenham star Dele Alli has really taken his game to the next level in the past few months. The 21-year-old is the heartbeat of this very impressive Spurs side and he has contributed heavily both in terms of goal and assists.
Having already grabbed 21 goals this season, Alli is tipped to become even better than the likes of Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and David Beckham. Still only 21, the youngster has the potential to become one of the best football players of this generation.
Also read: Real Madrid and Manchester City set to battle for 'world's best' defender
The heart of the matter
Although Alli remains a Tottenham player at the moment, it is tough to reject the advances of top clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid. With both the Spanish giants desperate to sign the Englishman, Alli’s desire to play with Messi might well tilt the scales in Barcelona’s favour.
Both clubs are keen to strengthen their midfield and the signing of the Tottenham star will represent a major coup for these two arch rivals.
What’s next?
Should Barcelona and Real Madrid table a bid of over £70m for the midfielder, it looks inevitable that he will leave the Premier League and Tottenham in this transfer window. Barcelona have a more pressing need to revamp their midfield and it will be interesting to see if they push ahead and complete the deal for the promising youngster.
Also read: 10 most valuable U-23 midfielders in the world
Author’s Take
Alli is still only 21 and has proven to be one of the best midfielders in the world already. The Englishman looks like the ‘real deal’ and Barcelona should capitalise on his preference to play with Messi and complete the signing as soon as possible.
