"I'm being told" - Journalist drops big update on Southampton's chances of landing Dele Alli

Journalist Tom Barclay insists that Southampton would not be able to compete with Newcastle United if it came down to the two clubs in a straight bidding war for the signature of Tottenham Hotspur’s Dele Alli.

Both clubs have been linked with a potential swoop to sign the former England international, who has struggled immensely for minutes this season.

He appears to be at the centre of something of a saga ahead of the end of the transfer window.

Dele has struggled under both of Spurs’ managers this season, failing to make a real impression under Nuno Espirito Santo and now flattering to deceive under Antonio Conte.

The Italian left him out of his squad for the Premier League clash with Chelsea at the weekend, a game that Spurs lost 2-0.

However, reports have suggested that his absence was due to the prospect of a pending move away from the club, be it either permanently or on loan.

The Daily Telegraph has reported that there is plenty of Premier League interest in a move for Dele this month.

Newcastle have been linked with a swoop after seeing their hopes of landing Jesse Lingard from Manchester United fizzle out, while Saints are also said to be keen on a loan deal, along with Everton and Brighton & Hove Albion.

However, the Telegraph makes it clear that the club that signs Dele on loan will likely have to cover the entirety of his £100,000-per-week wages, and Barclay believes that would be a bridge too far for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men.

Per Spotrac, Theo Walcott is the highest earner at St Mary’s, taking home £75,000-per-week, £25,000 less than the salary his countryman commands.

He told GiveMeSport: "Southampton wouldn't be able to compete [with Newcastle], if it is £100,000-per-week wages. For the moment, I'm