Tottenham Hotspur reportedly set the asking price of versatile attacker Richarlison amid interest from the Saudi Pro League.
Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly set the asking price of Richarlison amid interest from the Saudi Pro League.
When Spurs signed the forward from Everton two years ago, they committed to paying £50m with a further £10m potentially coming in add-ons.
The Brazil international has since endured somewhat of a mixed stint in North London, failing to hold down a regular spot in the starting lineup under two different managers.
Nevertheless, 15 goals and eight assists have still been contributed from 66 appearances, his form far superior under Ange Postecoglou than it was with Antonio Conte in charge.
With three years remaining on Richarlison’s contract, Spurs do not have to be in any rush to sell the attacker should an offer materialise.
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Spurs take firm stance
However, there is also an understanding that there is a certain fee that they realistically would be unable to turn down if a proposal came from the Saudi Pro League.
According to The Times, chairman Daniel Levy would insist on any suitors paying £60m if they want to acquire the 27-year-old’s services during the summer transfer window.
In recent days, it has been claimed that Al-Ahli, who finished third in the Saudi Pro League during 2023-24, have identified Richarlison as a potential target.
Matthias Jaissle‘s side have secured continental football for next season in the process, while also having the likes of Edouard Mendy, Gabri Veiga, Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino in their ranks.
The recent report suggested that Richarlison’s Brazilian compatriot Gabriel Jesus was also under consideration with a versatile frontman seemingly towards the top of their priority list.
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Would Levy be prepared to budge on valuation?
Given the finances available in the Middle East, Levy may have set Richarlison’s asking price so high to see if it deters or tempts PIF-owned Al-Ahli.
There is no chance of the demand being met by a European-based team courtesy of Richarlison having never scored more than 13 goals in a domestic campaign throughout his career.
That said, with 20 goals from 48 outings with Brazil, he carries a strong reputation on the global stage, and would naturally be viewed as another key addition to a emerging division.
Richarlison has been plying his trade in England since 2017, it yet to be seen whether he would like to end his time in the Premier League at this stage of his career.