Player is reportedly edging closer to an imminent move to the Saudi Pro League after being frozen out of Roberto De Zerbi’s plans at Tottenham Hotspur.
According to reports, the Brazilian forward has been excluded from Tottenham’s Premier League squad for the current campaign after losing the confidence of De Zerbi.
The 29-year-old was handed a starting role in Spurs’ opening league fixture against Brentford, but he is now unable to feature for the club again until at least January after being left out of the squad.
Richarlison considers Saudi switch
Richarlison attracted significant interest from former club Everton last week, while Turkish side Trabzonspor were also reportedly pursuing his signature.
However, neither move materialised before the respective transfer deadlines, leaving the Saudi Pro League as one of the remaining options for the experienced striker.
With the Saudi transfer window still open, Richarlison is expected to consider a move to the Middle East rather than remain on the sidelines for several months before the January transfer window.
The striker enjoyed some productive spells for Tottenham last season, scoring 11 goals in 32 Premier League appearances. Despite those numbers, his future in North London now appears increasingly uncertain.
Trabzonspor and Everton moves collapse
Trabzonspor were reportedly in advanced negotiations with Richarlison, but the Turkish club ultimately failed to complete the deal before their transfer deadline on Friday.
A return to Everton was also believed to be a serious possibility, with Richarlison reportedly keen on returning to Merseyside.
However, negotiations broke down after the two parties failed to reach an agreement over the terms of the proposed transfer.
The situation subsequently appeared to worsen between Richarlison and De Zerbi after the striker posted a strongly worded message on social media.
Richarlison declared that he would “never again” allow other people to determine his future, adding another layer of tension to his already uncertain position at Tottenham.
Spurs could accept cut-price offer
Saudi clubs reportedly have until October 12 to finalise their squads, giving Richarlison another opportunity to secure a move away from Tottenham.
Given the circumstances, Spurs could reportedly be willing to consider a reduced fee for the Brazilian if a Saudi club makes a suitable offer.
With Richarlison seemingly no longer part of De Zerbi’s plans, a move away from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium could now be the best solution for all parties.
De Zerbi under pressure despite poor start
Richarlison’s potential departure comes as De Zerbi faces growing scrutiny following Tottenham’s difficult start to the Premier League season.
Spurs have failed to score in their opening three league matches, although they picked up their first point of the campaign with a 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
The lack of goals has frustrated supporters, particularly after Tottenham invested heavily in their squad during the summer transfer window.
Despite the disappointing start, reports indicate that Tottenham currently have no plans to dismiss De Zerbi.
The club backed the Italian manager significantly during the summer and remain keen to give him sufficient time to work with his new-look squad.
For now, De Zerbi is expected to remain in charge, but Tottenham’s attacking struggles mean pressure will continue to build unless results and performances improve quickly.