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Tottenham star struggling to find European suitors amidst strong Middle East interest

Originally posted on To The Lane And Back
By Rohan Sengupta | Last updated May 20, 2025 8:16 AM ET

David Moyes has shut down rumours linking Tottenham forward Richarlison to a return to Everton

There has been a lot of speculation surrounding the future of Richarlison at Tottenham Hotspur in recent weeks and months.

The Brazilian has struggled to find his feet at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium since his coveted move from Everton back in 2022. The persistent injury problems and fitness concerns have limited his presence in a Spurs shirt on the pitch over the last two seasons. This has led to him barely managing to make an impact for Ange Postecoglou’s whilst acting as a reliable back-up for club-record signing Dominic Solanke.

Truth be told, Richarlison could do well with a change of scenery. The club chiefs have also started growing frustrated with the 28-year-old’s lack of availability and consistency as they look to lay curtains to his time in North London. As a result, the forward has been linked with a move away from N17 this summer. However, an exit might not be so straightforward.

Tottenham are seeking €35 million to sell the South American star this summer. He has been heavily linked with a return back to Everton. Brazilian and Saudi Pro League clubs have also shown an interest in Richarlison, who has a contract at the club until 2027 (Transfermarkt).

However, Everton boss David Moyes recently denied links with Richarlison, despite the versatile forward making no secret of his fondness for the fans since his departure. A move back to Brazil remains an option, but Spurs podcast Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham has ruled that out, expressing concern over Richarlison’s lack of suitors ahead of the summer transfer window.

“We’ve heard previously from Richarlison that he wants to remain in Europe,” John Wenham exclusively told Tottenham News.

“Therefore, I’m not sure a move to Saudi Arabia or Brazil is on the cards. He might move back to Brazil later in his career, but not while he is still in his 20s. I don’t see that getting off the ground.

“I thought Everton would be a perfect destination. However, Moyes seemingly ruled that out recently, which was disappointing. Therefore, I do now worry about what options will be available to Richarlison, that the player and Tottenham will be happy with.”

Indeed, Everton will be an ideal destination for Richarlison if he decides to leave—a place where he has played the best football of his career to date. He was an intimidating figure during his time at Goodison Park, a handful to deal for the opposition defenders. Unfortunately, the Brazilian has to managed to showcase his full potential at Tottenham, thanks majorly to chronic fitness issues.

Moyes denying rumours of Richarlison’s return to Everton in the summer is worrying for Spurs. This reduces the player’s options to choose his next destination. The North Londoners cannot carry on a passenger like Richarlison and should look to move him on at the earlies opportunity, even if this requires convincing him of a move to Brazil, Saudi Arabia or any other leagues abroad.

This article first appeared on To The Lane And Back and was syndicated with permission.

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