Richarlison rejected a permanent transfer to Vasco da Gama during the final days of the transfer window, according to sporting director Admar Lopes, after the Brazilian club reached an agreement with Tottenham Hotspur. The 29-year-old forward ultimately stayed in North London, where he remains completely frozen out by manager Roberto De Zerbi ahead of the January window.
Vasco da Gama Pursuit and Failed Offer
Vasco da Gama pushed until the final day of the transfer window to bring Richarlison back to Brazil, according to statements from sporting director Admar Lopes. Lopes revealed that the Brazilian club made a formal purchase offer and secured financial backing to make an exception for the Tottenham forward. Speaking in a press conference, Lopes explained that the player’s staff initially proposed a loan, but international loan limits blocked that route. The club then stretched their budget to orchestrate a permanent deal led by club president Pedrinho. Despite those efforts, Lopes stated that the player refused the terms of a permanent transfer, arguing it was not the right time to return to Brazil.
Tottenham Exit Collapses Amid Roberto De Zerbi Falling Out
The failed move to Vasco compounds a toxic situation at Tottenham, where Richarlison’s relationship with manager Roberto De Zerbi broke down completely. Friction escalated after the forward made it clear during pre-season that he wanted to leave North London. In response, De Zerbi left the player entirely out of Tottenham’s official 25-man Premier League squad and confirmed that the Brazilian will not feature even in domestic cup competitions. De Zerbi declared that Richarlison will not play even if available, not even in the Carabao Cup. That stance prompted a public response on social media from the striker, who questioned his total exile following the collapse of his transfer bids.
Multiple Failed Transfer Links Leave Striker Sidelined
Richarlison explored several avenues to leave Tottenham before the window slammed shut. Apart from the late approach from Vasco da Gama, the Brazilian forward was linked with a return to Everton, while a potential move to Turkish side Trabzonspor also failed to materialise. With all exit routes blocked and his bridges burned with the coaching staff, the striker faces a long period on the sidelines. The player must now wait until the January transfer window opens to find a new club, leaving his career in temporary limbo.
Did You Know?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Richarlison’s move to Vasco da Gama collapse?
According to sporting director Admar Lopes, Vasco da Gama agreed terms with Tottenham and made a formal purchase offer, but Richarlison refused the terms of a permanent transfer because he felt it was not the right time to return to Brazil.

Is Richarlison still playing for Tottenham Hotspur?
No. Manager Roberto De Zerbi has completely frozen him out, leaving the forward out of Tottenham’s 25-man Premier League squad and confirming he will not feature in domestic cup matches.
What other clubs were linked with Richarlison?
Before the transfer window closed, Richarlison was linked with a return to Everton and a move to Turkish club Trabzonspor, though neither transfer materialized.
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