Everton have kept up regular dialogue with Tottenham over the course of the summer about a potential big-money swoop for Richarlison, and TEAMtalk understands the Brazilian is keen on a return to his old stomping ground.
The 29-year-old left Merseyside for north London in 2022 in a £60 million deal, and while his scoring record at Spurs hasn’t been poor, fitness setbacks have repeatedly interrupted his spell there.
He netted 11 times in 32 Premier League appearances last season, and Roberto De Zerbi remains open to letting him go. Sources indicate the manager isn’t pushing him out the door, but has made clear the forward is free to consider a move elsewhere.
Everton, for their part, have reportedly been tracking Richarlison’s situation closely since last season ended. TEAMtalk reported back in October that the striker would jump at the chance to return to Goodison Park, and that scenario now appears to be edging closer to reality — though several pieces still need to fall into place.
An Everton departure could unlock the Richarlison reunion
For Everton to land another forward, they’d likely need to offload one first, particularly with Thierno Barry and Beto both still part of the squad.
Barry, 23, had a mixed first season on Merseyside, but there’s still belief he can grow into an elite striker, and his encouraging pre-season form makes an exit look unlikely for now.
Beto’s situation is murkier. With the popular forward heading into the final year of his contract, David Moyes’ side could opt to sell this summer rather than risk losing him for nothing later. That would open the door for Richarlison — who can play as either a central striker or left winger — to make a sensational Merseyside return.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are closing in on a deal for Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo, another forward who’s comfortable on the left or centrally, and who would slot in as a direct replacement for Richarlison.
Some reports have suggested Everton already had a bid for Richarlison rejected, but our understanding is that this isn’t accurate. Still, the Toffees are keeping tabs on his availability, alongside Chelsea’s Liam Delap.
Richarlison remains a beloved figure among Everton fans, and bringing him back would add a proven goal threat the side has lacked. That said, pursuing him could complicate any hopes of re-signing former loanee Jack Grealish, since landing both in the same window seems unlikely. Moyes and his recruitment team may ultimately have to pick between reuniting with one fan favourite or the other.
