Tottenham's second most expensive signing attracting massive interest but selling him might not be too bad

Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli are reportedly monitoring Richarlison and have opened talks to sign him this summer, according to Saudi outlet Al-Riyadiyah. The Jeddah-based club, one of four teams owned by the Saudi Arabian PIF, are hoping to strengthen ahead of the new campaign.

They already have the likes of Riyad Mahrez, Edouard Mendy, Roberto Firmino, and Franck Kessie but have not given up on Richarlison as they look to add to their squad and challenge for the league title this season. In 2022, Tottenham Hotspur signed the Brazil forward from Everton on a five-year deal believed to be worth £60 million. The then 25-year-old had scored 10 goals and provided five assists, helping Everton avoid relegation the previous season.

For Spurs, they had bought a Brazilian international and were on their way to finding a long-term replacement for Harry Kane, who played one full season with Richarlison before turning down three contract extension offers from Spurs to move to Bayern Munich. His departure meant there was now space for Richarlison, who responded with 11 league goals and four assists as Spurs started the season on fire before falling apart due to injury. They eventually finished fifth, missing out on Champions League football but securing Europa League football ahead of Chelsea.

Why Selling Richarlison Might Not Be Too Bad

Spurs made Richarlison their second most expensive signing when they bought him from Everton for £60 million, but it’s fair to say that even though he’s shown glimpses of his enormous potential, he’s just not been able to escape injuries and be the main man for the club. The Lilywhites have been linked to some top strikers in Europe, including Brentford’s Ivan Toney, who offers them different attacking options. Spurs could also rival Chelsea for another Premier League striker, with both clubs showing an interest in Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez.

There is also well-known interest in Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze. He is a player that Ange Postecoglou likes, but he won’t come cheap. Richarlison isn't getting any younger, and given that his best output for the club has been 11 goals, getting a fee above £50 million could be like hitting the jackpot for Spurs.

Club captain Son Heung-min is staying at the club and will eventually get the starting slot as the lead striker. They have already extended Timo Werner’s loan for another season, so selling Richarlison and using the money well will not be all doom and gloom. There is a need for depth given the added games of the Europa League, but squad planning and bringing in younger players with more hunger and on smaller wages could be the way to go.