Report: Blues transfer-target rules out move to arch rivals

Everton ace Richarlison rules out Arsenal move amid Chelsea interest

Everton star Richarlison is a subject of interest to quite a number of clubs this summer, with the bitter triumvirate of London rivals – Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur all vying for the services of the Brazilian. 

Arsenal Technical Director Edu Gaspar is known for having a good connection with Brazilian talents and that has often paid off in negotiations, like the recent acquisition of 19-year-old forward Marquinhos from Sao Paulo. 

However, Richarlison doesn’t seem convinced by the prospect of playing for the Gunners, according to Brazilian outlet UOL via Sport Witness (h/t Football London). 

The Toffees striker feels that he will be “forgotten” on the Gunners’ bench under Mikel Arteta, despite the recent departure of Alexandre Lacazette which has left Arsenal devoid of any top-class striker. 

Richarlison was instrumental in helping Frank Lampard and Everton avoid relegation and is considered a cult hero at Goodison Park. He has scored 53 goals in 152 appearances so far during his time on Merseyside. He also has 14 assists to his name. 

Reports suggest that the Brazilian is open to a new challenge, so a move this summer can’t be ruled out. Everton are expected to charge a premium for their star man since Richarlison has two years left on his current deal. 

Will Richarlison solve Chelsea’s attacking crisis?

One thing that Thomas Tuchel has struggled to solve at Chelsea is the forward line conundrum. Unlike title rivals Man City and Liverpool, Chelsea haven’t been able to unlock the true potential of their attack.

Big-money arrival Romelu Lukaku hasn’t come close to meeting anyone’s expectation and his second-stint at Chelsea is nearing an unceremonious end, with the striker pushing for a move back to Inter Milan after only a year. 

Chelsea are also open to considering offers for Timo Werner, Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech. If either of the aforementioned names departs alongside Lukaku, Chelsea will have a huge gap to plug not just in defence but in the attacking section too. 

More Chelsea news:

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• Report: Chelsea set to submit €40m bid for top South American defender
• Injury News: Chelsea superstar withdraws from international duty due to fitness issue

Although we cannot say for sure if Richarlison will solve Chelsea’s misfiring attack, the Everton no. 7 is a Premier League-proven option who wouldn’t cost a world-record fee. He is still only 25-years-old and if Tuchel sees him as a fit for his system, Chelsea have no reason to not try for him. 

With his recent Arsenal admission, the club can feel a bit more confident while approaching him.