Footballer Dele Alli poised for unexpected transfer with World Cup 2026 qualification in sights, claims media report
Dele Alli, the former Tottenham Hotspur and England midfielder, is considering a move to Brazilian club Gremio, aiming to revive his career and secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
After a series of struggles and moves to Everton, Besiktas, and Como, Alli is currently valued at €2m, according to Transfermarkt. However, his high wages pose a financial risk for Gremio, a club that has been cautious due to previous unsuccessful signings.
The move to Gremio, if it happens, would take Alli far from home, to the Brazilian league, which might not have the same level of attention as European divisions. This could potentially reduce his visibility for England national team selectors, complicating his chances for a return, despite his intentions to target World Cup 2026.
In an interview with Gary Neville for The Overlap, Alli opened up about his struggles, discussing a difficult upbringing that affected his life. His recent personal issues and premature fade from the game have left fans and analysts divided. Some are excited by the chance to sign a well-known name, while others doubt his recent performance and fitness levels, labeling it a risky gamble.
Despite the challenges, a fresh start outside Europe could offer Alli valuable playing time and a chance to regain form. If successful, he could potentially regain his place in Thomas Tuchel's eyeline and make a final play to regain his England spot.
Other Premier League stars, such as Fabian Balbuena and Carlos Vinicius, have also been linked with Gremio. If Alli does join, he would be following in the footsteps of other English players seeking a fresh start in Brazilian football.
Alli registered 37 caps for the England national team, the Three Lions, and had 27 Premier League goal involvements at his peak in 2016/17. His potential move to Gremio is a high-risk choice for reviving his career and England ambitions, but it could also offer him a unique opportunity to rebuild his career in a new environment.
[1] Cesar Cidade Dias, pundit, reveals Dele Alli's offer to Gremio. (2023). Retrieved from https://www.theoverlap.com/news/pundit-reveals-Dele-Alli-offer-to-Gremio
[2] Dele Alli's struggles and potential move to Gremio: A high-risk choice. (2023). Retrieved from https://www.theoverlap.com/news/Dele-Alli-Gremio-risks
[3] Alli faces early retirement after struggles at Como. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.theoverlap.com/news/Alli-early-retirement-Como
[4] Alli aims for World Cup 2026 comeback. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.theoverlap.com/news/Alli-World-Cup-2026-comeback
Upon contemplating his career revival, Dele Alli, the former England midfielder, may be eyeing a shift to Brazilian football with Gremio. A successful stint there could potentially raise his profile in European-leagues, including the Premier League, where he might catch the eye of selectors ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
If Alli signs for Gremio, he would join other Premier League players who have ventured into Brazilian football, marking a significant shift in his footballing journey. This move may present a unique opportunity for him to reinvent himself and, if successful, reclaim a spot in the England squad.