Richarlison – Foto: rafaelribeirorio / CBF
Orlando City, a Major League Soccer club in the United States, presented a formal proposal to Tottenham Hotspur’s striker Richarlison this week. The initiative aimed to sign the 28-year-old Brazilian with a long-term contract, positioning him as the team’s main star until the 2026 World Cup. The negotiation, however, did not progress due to the high value demanded by Tottenham.
Richarlison, who has been playing in the Premier League since 2017, recorded three goals and one assist in 13 games this season. The English club, coached by Thomas Frank, sees the player as a key piece for title contention.
Orlando City’s offer included additional benefits, such as prominence in marketing campaigns and preparation for the World Cup. Despite initial mutual interest, the parties did not reach a viable counterproposal.
What a week for @richarlison! 💛
The striker was in tears after being subbed off for Brazil and opened up on his mental health afterwards.
Today, he scored his first Premier League goal for Spurs! 👏 pic.twitter.com/3SS9RPlaEi
— 433 (@433) September 16, 2023
Richarlison’s trajectory in England
Richarlison joined Watford in 2017 from Fluminense for about 12 million euros. In the following season, he moved to Everton, where he played 152 matches and scored 53 goals over four years.
In July 2022, Tottenham paid 50 million pounds for the striker, who signed until December 2027. The contract has no release clause, facilitating potential future negotiations.
The Brazilian faced recent injuries, such as one in November 2024 that sidelined him until early 2025. His return coincided with performance improvements, including decisive assists.
Financial obstacles in the transfer
The main hurdle arose with the asking price of 40 million euros, equivalent to R$ 248 million at the current exchange rate. Orlando City considered the amount incompatible with the MLS budget for foreign signings.
Clubs from Saudi Arabia and Italy scouted Richarlison during the European summer window of 2025, but he chose to stay at Tottenham. The decision prioritized visibility in the Premier League and the Brazilian national team.
Orlando City’s strategy for 2026
Orlando City’s plan envisioned integrating Richarlison into the squad to raise the competitive level in the Eastern Conference of the MLS. The club, founded in 2010 and in the league since 2015, seeks high-profile rivals to attract crowds.
- Proposed contract: Five-year duration, with an annual salary above 5 million dollars.
- Role in the team: Acting as the main number 9 and ambassador for the global tournament.
- Extra benefits: Participation in pre-Cup events and partnerships with local brands in Florida.
The lack of agreement forces the club to explore other options in the South American market.
Richarlison’s motivations for staying
Richarlison expressed a desire to compete in the 2026 World Cup with the Brazilian national team. His position at Tottenham facilitates call-ups under Carlo Ancelotti’s management since 2025.
The striker has scored 53 goals in 52 games for Brazil, including appearances in previous World Cups. The fight for a starting spot outweighs external proposals at this time.
Recurrent injuries, like the one in 2024, prompted adjustments in physical preparation. Tottenham’s medical department implemented protocols to prevent relapses.
Prospects for the winter market
Tottenham is evaluating its squad for the January 2026 transfer window. Richarlison, with a weekly salary of 130,000 pounds, attracts interest from emerging leagues.
Brazilian clubs, such as Fluminense and Palmeiras, consulted the player’s entourage in December 2024. No formal offers have advanced yet.
The MLS, expanding for the World Cup, is investing in impactful names. Orlando City, a rival to Inter Miami, plans reinforcements for the playoffs.
Recent performance of the Spurs
Tottenham occupies the upper half of the Premier League in October 2025, with recent wins over Aston Villa and Leeds United. Richarlison contributed with decisive substitute appearances.
In the Europa League, the team advanced with blowouts, including a 3-1 win over Bodø/Glimt. The Brazilian provided assists in key matches.
Coach Thomas Frank praised the striker’s versatility, who plays as a center forward or on the wings.
