Frank Lampard has said support and “tough love” can help reignite Dele Alli’s career and provide Everton with the goal threat they urgently require.
Everton will start the new Premier League season against Chelsea without an established striker after Dominic Calvert-Lewin was ruled out for six weeks with a knee injury and Richarlison was sold to Tottenham.
A replacement for the Brazil international, along with two midfielders, remains on Lampard’s wish-list for this transfer window.
There is also interest in the Wolves defender Conor Coady. Alli has started once since his January move from Spurs, who will receive £10m when the 26-year-old makes 20 appearances for Everton, but has featured more prominently and in an advanced role during pre-season.