Tottenham Hotspur have excluded Brazilian striker Richarlison from their Premier League squad for the 2026/27 season after a late move to return to Everton failed. The 29-year-old forward, who spent four years at Goodison Park before joining Spurs, cannot feature in Premier League matches until at least the January transfer window.
According to a report from the Daily Mirror, a potential return to Everton collapsed in the final stages of the summer transfer window. Tottenham had reportedly lined up a move for Iliman Ndiaye as part of the deal, but the forward instead joined Manchester City. Turkish club Trabzonspor also saw a bid for Richarlison rebuffed by the North London side.
Why did the Everton transfer fail?
The proposed deal that would have brought Richarlison back to Merseyside fell apart in the closing hours of the transfer period. Tottenham's summer spending saw them bring in Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, and Savio for significant fees, while Omar Marmoush arrived on loan with an obligation to buy next summer. This overhaul followed two difficult Premier League campaigns for Spurs.
Richarlison addressed the situation on social media this week. "After everything I’ve been through in the last few years, I’ve decided that never again will anyone decide my future for me," the Brazilian wrote. He added, "I always made it clear, on every occasion, that if I were to leave for another place, it would also have to be good for the club." The striker referenced past pressure and retaliation in his post, stating he stayed and gave his life to Tottenham when things were falling apart.
What are Richarlison's options now?
With the European transfer window closed, Richarlison's immediate options are limited. Saudi Pro League clubs can still sign players and have shown interest in the forward. A move to Turkey remains possible, though Tottenham rejected Trabzonspor's approach. Richarlison has one year remaining on his current Tottenham contract.
The striker was left out of the Tottenham squad that lost 2-0 to Newcastle United on Saturday. His omission from the Premier League roster means he cannot play league football for Spurs until the squad registration reopens in January. He could potentially feature in cup competitions if selected.
How does this affect Everton's season?
Everton currently sit seventh in the Premier League with four points from their opening two matches, following a win and a draw. They have scored three goals while conceding just one, giving them a positive goal difference of two. Sean Dyche's side are two points behind early leaders Manchester City.
The Toffees face Manchester United at Goodison Park on September 6th in their next fixture. United currently occupy tenth position in the table. Everton's early defensive solidity will be tested against Erik ten Hag's side. You can follow all the build-up and team news on our fixtures page.
Richarlison's failed return represents a missed opportunity to add proven Premier League quality to Everton's attacking options. The club's current standing and defensive record suggest a platform for success exists. Fans can track the team's progress throughout the season via our standings section.
The Brazilian's social media statement indicates he hopes his situation will be treated with the same respect he has shown to Tottenham and its staff. His contract with Spurs runs until the summer of 2027.
