Tottenham Hotspur are working to offload forward Richarlison after a proposed move to Turkish side Trabzonspor collapsed. According to OneFootball, Rio de Janeiro-based club Vasco da Gama have opened talks to sign the 29-year-old, who has been omitted from Tottenham's registered Premier League squad for the first half of the season. With Spurs active in several remaining markets to find a resolution, any potential departure must be permanent because the club has already reached FIFA's limit of six overseas loans.
Transfer hurdles and Vasco interest
Journalist Raisa Simplicio reports that Richarlison has given Vasco the "OK" to pursue a return to Brazilian football before December. However, any deal faces significant financial and structural hurdles. Spurs cannot sanction a loan move abroad under FIFA regulations, meaning Vasco or other suitors must agree to a permanent transfer. The forward's proposed move to Trabzonspor collapsed because the Turkish club lacked registration room for another foreign player after signing forward Franculino Dju. While Simplicio notes Richarlison is open to the move, his wage demands and Tottenham's preference for a permanent sale remain key obstacles. There are also conflicting reports regarding his contract status; the BBC suggests he is in his final year, whereas OneFootball reports his terms run until 2027.
De Zerbi's stance and squad implications
Richarlison's position at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has deteriorated under manager Roberto De Zerbi. Speaking at a press conference, De Zerbi revealed that the forward declined a contract extension at the start of pre-season, leading the club to "go to another page and work with Dominic Solanke and Omar Marmoush." To accommodate injured arrival Xavi Simons, Spurs omitted Richarlison from their registered top-flight squad, leaving him training away from the first team. With the Turkish deal dead, Tottenham are running out of options. While Vasco have initiated dialogue, other markets—including Saudi Arabia—could provide alternative routes if the Brazilian side cannot finance a permanent package.
