Tottenham Hotspur forward Richarlison has confirmed that he had the opportunity to sign for Chelsea and Arsenal during the summer transfer window.
Having helped Everton avoided relegation from the Premier League during 2021-22, it soon became apparent that the Brazil international may be allowed to depart Goodison Park.
The Toffees needed to boost their position with financial fair play, a scenario which Spurs soon took advantage of as they negotiated a £60m deal with the Merseyside outfit.
Richarlison has enjoyed a strong start to his career in North London, contributing two goals and two assists from his four starts and four substitute outings in all competitions.
However, the 25-year-old may have been plying his trade for a different club in England's capital had Spurs not backed up their admiration with an official bid.
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As quoted by Goal, Richarlison said: "I know Chelsea made an offer, and I believe Arsenal also contacted Everton to ask about my situation, but Spurs came in and paid the fee, you know?
"It's as simple as that. Everton had to sell some players to avoid a Financial Fair Play problem, and the negotiations were very brief, to be honest.
"I was on holiday in Brazil when I heard that Tottenham had made Everton an offer. I was happy because they are a huge team. Then it was all about the clubs negotiating a deal, and fortunately, everything went well.
"Antonio Conte called me during the negotiations and expressed how much he'd like to have me on board – that was vital for my decision."
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While a deal for Richarlison was officially confirmed by Spurs on July 1, there was extensive speculation regarding his next move in the weeks before his transfer.
Arsenal were also looking to be proactive during that period with the big-money additions of Fabio Vieira and Gabriel Jesus confirmed on July 1 and July 4 respectively.
However, Chelsea failed to make a significant addition until as late as July 13 when Raheem Sterling left Manchester City to move to Stamford Bridge.
Despite constant talk around the futures of their creative players, Sterling was the only recognised wideman to sign for the West Londoners in the summer.
Although Richarlison could have deputised down the middle of the attack, Chelsea already had Kai Havertz, Timo Werner and Armando Broja as options while Richarlison was still an Everton player.
Darren Plant
