Fabrizio Romano: Tottenham pursuit of Richarlison dependent on move for Raphinha
The Guardian’s Fabrizio Romano has insisted that any potential Tottenham move for Everton striker Richarlison hinges on the London club’s interest in Leeds United winger Raphinha.
The Daily Mail reported on 23 June that Spurs have ended their interest in Gabriel Jesus in order to prioritise moves for Raphinha and Richarlison.
However Italian journalist Romano believes Spurs are in fact prioritising the Leeds United man over the Everton striker.
Talking to Wett Freunde on 23 June, Romano said: “It depends on Raphinha I think.
“You will not sign both Raphinha and Richarlison, but they negotiate with both of them.
“As for Raphinha, they are in direct contact with Leeds.
“For Richarlison, there are no direct talks between Tottenham and Everton just yet.
“The negotiations for these two deals are still at different stages.”
He added: “As for Richarlison, it’s important to note that the player is open to a move this summer.
“That’s why he decided on a new agent in April, he’s really open to that possibility.
“It depends on Raphinha because those who don’t get Rahpinha will see Richarlison as an opportunity.
“It will be a Brazilian domino.
“But I think there’s a very good chance of seeing Richarlison at a top club this summer.”
Brazilians are hot property
The Brazilian trio are certainly hot property at the moment and it is looking extremely likely that all three of them will be on the move this summer.
It is an intriguing situation, with Jesus, Raphinha and Richarlison all of a similar age and all being chased by the same clubs.
It does feel as if all three will join one of Chelsea, Arsenal or Tottenham.
However, it is a case of guessing who ends up where.
Furthermore, Jesus and Richarlison have been operating in wider positions this season as opposed to the central striking roles that they usually take up.
This gives the transfer plot another twist with it unlikely that one of the aforementioned clubs will sign two of the Brazilian internationals.
From an Everton perspective, a move away from Goodison does make sense for Richarlison with the Toffees looking to raise some much-needed funds for Frank Lampard to reshape his squad.
Everton won’t want this to drag on but unfortunately, this transfer saga doesn’t look like being settled any time soon.