“Welcome Back Richarlison?” – Toffees Finally Learn Their Fate on Richarlison’s Return After This Latest Decision from Spurs New Manager

Richarlison’s Everton Return in Doubt as Thomas Frank Eyes Role for Brazilian at Spurs

Everton’s hopes of sealing a sensational return for Richarlison this summer could be derailed, with incoming Tottenham boss Thomas Frank reportedly keen to hand the Brazilian a more central role at Spurs.

The Toffees are preparing for a pivotal summer under David Moyes, with a new striker seen as a top priority at Finch Farm. With Dominic Calvert-Lewin yet to make a final decision on his future and his contract set to expire at the end of June, Everton are actively exploring forward options — and Richarlison has emerged as a leading target.

But just as Everton begin to show their hand, Tottenham’s own summer reshuffle may complicate matters. Thomas Frank is widely expected to take the reins in north London following Ange Postecoglou’s departure, and there are strong indications that Richarlison could feature more prominently under the Dane than he ever did with his predecessor.

Speaking to Everton News, TBR Football’s Chief Correspondent Graeme Bailey shed light on how the managerial switch at Spurs could significantly alter the landscape surrounding Richarlison’s availability.

“I’m told we need to keep an eye on Richarlison and Thomas Frank,” Bailey revealed. “He could end up playing a role for Frank. I think it might not end up being the greatest news for Everton because he might get a chance to play that number nine role under the new Spurs manager.”

Frank, who built a reputation at Brentford for crafting flexible, hard-working attacking sides, is understood to admire Richarlison’s skillset — particularly for his ability to lead the line with intensity and movement, something the Brazilian has showcased in flashes despite an inconsistent stint at Spurs.

“Frank didn’t sign Dominic Solanke and, when he comes in, there’s a real chance he could prefer Richarlison,” Bailey continued. “The way Brentford played, I think Richarlison’s more suited to how that sets up. Keep an eye on Richarlison. I think the whole dynamic of Richarlison and Tottenham could change with Frank coming in.”

The Brazilian forward has endured a mixed spell in north London since arriving in 2022, struggling to consistently start under Postecoglou and Antonio Conte before him. Injuries, patchy form, and managerial instability all conspired to deny him rhythm. But at 28, and with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Richarlison is understood to be eager for regular game time — a factor that could still weigh in Everton’s favour if Frank can’t guarantee him minutes.

“But he does want to play and Everton would have him back,” Bailey added. “He wants to play with it being a World Cup year, but let’s not rule out the fact Frank could use him. I’m told it’s a real possibility.”

Richarlison has kept his cards close to his chest publicly, though a recent post on Instagram suggested a desire to make things work at Tottenham. Even so, the door remains ajar for Everton, who would jump at the chance to bring back a player still held in high regard on Merseyside.

The Brazilian made 135 appearances for the Toffees between 2018 and 2022, scoring 53 goals and earning cult status for his combative, wholehearted displays — often carrying the attacking burden during tough Premier League campaigns.

Now, with Everton in the midst of another transitional summer, a player of Richarlison’s pedigree — and familiarity with the club — would be a welcome boost. But Moyes and the recruitment team may need to act fast, especially given the club’s urgency to resolve its striker situation.

Calvert-Lewin’s future remains unresolved despite the offer of a new contract being on the table. The England international has endured an injury-plagued few seasons and, although he showed flashes of form late in the 2024/25 campaign, he has yet to commit to staying at Goodison Park.

With the market for strikers particularly competitive this summer, Everton can ill-afford to be left behind. The club have already missed out on Liam Delap, who opted to join Chelsea in a deal that underlined the challenges of attracting top young forwards amid stiff domestic and European competition.

The timeline is pressing. Everton will fly out to the United States for their pre-season tour in late July — a deadline that could prove significant in the hunt for a new striker. Moyes is believed to want any new forward acquisition integrated into the group well ahead of the Premier League opener in August.

There is little margin for error. Everton, still navigating financial constraints and operating under close scrutiny of profitability and sustainability rules (PSR), must make smart and timely decisions if they are to climb the table next season.

In that context, a move for Richarlison — whose future may hinge on Frank’s tactical preferences — is both a potential coup and a risk. Should Tottenham choose to hold onto him, Everton will be forced to pivot quickly, with alternatives reportedly under assessment.

What’s clear is that both Richarlison’s situation and Everton’s striker search will remain fluid in the coming weeks. For Moyes and the club’s recruitment hierarchy, the coming month will be crucial.

Whether the Brazilian returns to the blue half of Merseyside or finds renewed life under Frank in north London, Richarlison’s next move could significantly shape Everton’s summer — and their prospects for 2025/26.