Former Premier League midfielder Dele Alli has signed a deal with Italian side Como until 2026.
The deal contains an option to extend the contract for a further 12 months.
The Athletic reported that the Serie A side were open to letting the 28-year-old train with them as he continued his recovery from a long-term injury, which he has been doing since December.
A Como statement said the club “recognises his exceptional talent” but the focus was on “providing Dele with a supportive environment where he can gradually integrate into the squad.”
“While there will be no immediate performance expectations, the club is confident that he will make a significant contribution both on the pitch and as a mentor to the club’s young talents,” the statement continued.
Dele was in the stands to watch Como’s Serie A home victory over Roma on December 15, and head coach Cesc Fabregas addressed the situation regarding the Englishman.
“He could train with us from after Christmas, but only to help him get some fitness,” Fabregas said at the time.
However, Como have opted to sign the England international on a permanent basis.
Upon completing the signing of Dele, Fabregas said: “The club believes in Dele’s potential and is committed to helping him rediscover his best form. His experience and leadership qualities will undoubtedly benefit the squad.”
The former Tottenham Hotspur player joined Everton in January 2022, but he last played for the Merseyside club in August 2022 due to various injuries. His last competitive appearance was in February 2023 while on loan at Turkish side Besiktas.
He continued to train at Everton’s facilities after his contract with the club ended in July as part of his rehabilitation from a thigh problem.
In December, Dele confirmed that he was leaving Everton after conceding “things haven’t worked out as we all would have hoped”.
Como, who are 17th in Serie A, are next in action against Udinese on January 20.
GO DEEPER
Dele Alli and the light at the end of the tunnel
(Jacopo M. Raule/Getty Images for Como 1907)
