Tottenham Hotspur star Richarlison is unlikely to join Orlando City in January
Tottenham Hotspur signed some exciting players during the summer transfer window, especially in attack. They also offloaded many players, while several of them left on loan. One player who was placed on the chopping block in the summer was Richarlison.
Richarlison was heavily linked with an exit from N17 all summer. But despite a lot of speculation surrounding his future, no deal happened and the 28-year-old ended up staying at Spurs. With Dominic Solanke struggling with persistent ankle issues, new boss Thomas Frank had no choice but to start the pre-season with Richarlison.
The Brazilian forward managed to keep himself fit over the summer and thrive in Thomas Frank’s system. He has found a new lease of life at Tottenham, netting thrice and supplying an assist in seven Premier League games thus far.
Stefan Borson claims Richarlison unlikely to agree Orlando City switch
Despite him managing to become a regular starter under Frank, Richarlison has continued to be linked with a potential departure in 2026. After failing to sign him in the summer, MLS club Orlando City are trying to go for the Tottenham man again. Reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed the Orlando City officials have presented their project to the Brazilian’s representatives.
It was recently revealed that if Orlando City put forth a tempting offer in January, Richarlison would accept it and leave Spurs. However, as per former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson, a move to Orlando City unlikely to happen for the 28-year-old due to the finances involved in any potential deal.
“I think at £30m it would be the record signing for the MLS, so I think that must be unlikely,” Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider.
“I’d take it with a pinch of salt, to be honest. It’s hard to see why Orlando would have £30m, but maybe I’ve missed something. As I say, I think it’s unlikely.”
What does the future hold for Richarlison?
There was a realistic chance of Richarlison leaving for pastures new in the summer. The South American star wanted to stay at White Hart Lane and fight for his place. Frank also gave an opportunity to prove himself and he has done that, benefitting from Solanke’s continued absence from an ankle issue.
Tottenham have plans to invest in a new striker next year, with FC Porto’s Samu Aghehowa emerging as one of the main targets. A January move looks difficult, so it would be in the Lilywhites’ best interest to keep hold of Richarlison. With the World Cup happening in the summer of 2026, Richarlison is eager to prove his worth and secure a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for the tournament.
Unless Spurs can bring in adequate replacement for Richarlison, as well as keep Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani fit, Frank must not sanction his departure in January amid Orlando City links.