NATHAN Redmond revealed he discussed a move to Besiktas with former England international Dele Alli, before joining the midfielder in Turkey.

Dele completed his move to the Turkish giants from Premier League rivals Everton earlier this summer.

Redmond shared the pitch with the 26-year-old for five minutes on his only England appearance, in Germany. He is now on loan at Besiktas.  

Redmond, who is credited as a big influence for young players at Saints, discussed the move with Dele before ending his six-year St Mary’s stay.

“We talked to Dele,” Redmond told Turkish media. “He spoke to me a lot about the atmosphere here and the interest people have in him.”

“Of course, that was one of the feelings we wanted to experience for me and my family."

Redmond had entered the final year of his Saints contract and had played only one minute – a late appearance on the opening day – this season.

The 28-year-old forward did not even make the rotated side at Cambridge United, with Ralph Hasenhuttl preferring to give academy players a chance,

But six years on from signing from Norwich City, Redmond did post a lengthy thank you message to his teammates, staff and supporters before completing a permanent exit.

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