‘Richarlison exit sealed’ as Tottenham transfer negotiations underway
Richarlison looks to have spent his final season at Tottenham with transfer negotiations now underway.
The Brazilian was absent on Saturday (19 July) when Tottenham put two past Reading during Thomas Frank’s first pre-season game.
While an injury seems to have been the reason, this still exemplifies why the North London club are determined to sell Richarlison this summer.
Indeed, fitness has been a huge issue since the Brazilian arrived at Hotspur Way, and Tottenham appear to have had enough.
Tottenham begin negotiations for Arnaud Kalimuendo
Richarlison scored five goals and made two assists in 24 matches for Tottenham last season.
While his available minutes are worrying, the raw statistics are a greater concern. Seven goal contributions in over 20 matches indicate that the striker is underperforming even when fit.
| Player | Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Richarlison | 2024/25 | Tottenham | 24 | 5 | 2 |
| Arnaud Kalimuendo | 2024/25 | Stade de Rennais | 34 | 18 | 4 |
As such, the North London club have spent the summer hunting for Richarlison’s replacement and may have identified their man.
As reported by L’Equipe on Sunday (20 July), Tottenham have opened negotiations with Stade de Rennais for Arnaud Kalimuendo, who is under contract until 2027.
It is understood that talks are not yet advanced, and Villarreal are also considering the feasibility of his signing. As a result, Spurs will need to hit the gas if they want to prevent the Spanish club from entering through the back door.
Whether Kalimuendo signs at Hotspur Way or not, the recent news indicates that the club is active in the striker market.
With Dominic Solanke anticipated to be an important player for Frank, and speculation around Richarlison’s future rife, it is safe to say that the Brazilian’s exit this summer is more or less sealed.
Kalimuendo would be a good investment
Tottenham could get their money’s worth and more if Kalimuendo arrives at Hotspur Way this summer.
The French centre-forward netted 18 times and contributed four assists in 34 appearances last season. This put his four goals shy of Ousmane Dembele, who led Ligue 1 in goals during the 2024/25 campaign.
The French league has been home to some of the biggest talents in football. Indeed, the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Thierry Henry and Karim Benzema all developed in France before moving abroad.
And the wealth of talent it generates does not seem to be stopping anytime soon, with Desire Doue, Bradley Barcola and Spurs’ Mathys Tel, who also played for Rennes, all key players for the future.
Therefore, it could be worth Tottenham securing another French talent this summer.
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