Roberto De Zerbi reveals Richarlison update after major Tottenham contract twist

The Brazilian forward is in danger of being left in transfer limbo, having so far failed to secure a move away from Spurs despite informing the club of his desire to exit late last month.

Richarlison is believed to be considering legal action in an attempt to try to terminate his Spurs contract, with the club said to be unwilling to facilitate a loan switch to Brazilian side Vasco da Gama.

A temporary move back to his homeland is said to be Richarlison’s preference as it would allow him to build match fitness before reassessing his options in January.

Tottenham would prefer a permanent sale but have yet to receive any formal offers.

Time is running out for Richarlison, with the transfer window in Brazil set to close on Friday night and Spurs no closer to an agreement.

Richarlison will not be with the team on Saturday as Spurs look for their first top-flight win of the season against Everton after he was left out of De Zerbi’s 25-man Premier League squad last week.

Exit wish: Richarlison is desperate to secure a departure from Tottenham

PA

Richarlison saw a potential £35million return to former club Everton collapse last week as the two sides were unable to agree personal terms.

Asked for an update on the situation at his pre-Everton press conference on Friday, Tottenham boss De Zerbi said: “I don't know (if Richarlison will leave). I don't know, it's not my job.

“All I can say is I know very well what the club have done for Richarlison, and Richarlison knows what he has done for the club.”

Should a move back to Brazil fail to materialise on Friday, Richarlison would be set to stay at Spurs unless a solution can be reached to terminate his contract.

Reports had suggested that the transfer windows in Saudi Arabia and Portugal could also provide a route out for Richarlison.

But with the Saudi Pro League announcing on Sunday evening that the window was closed and clubs in Portugal now only allowed to formalise transfers for youth players before the deadline, Richarlison is fast running out of options.