Vasco da Gama have initiated contact to explore the signing of Tottenham Hotspur forward Richarlison, testing the groundwork for a potential move back to Brazilian football, according to reports from Brazilian media. The 28-year-old player faces a complex transfer situation following the closure of major European and secondary global transfer windows.
Vasco da Gama initiates contact over Richarlison move
Behind the scenes of the Rio inquiry
While Vasco’s leadership has not issued an official statement regarding the discussions, sources close to the player indicate that inquiries were made to understand what an agreement would entail.
The pursuit is driven in part by long-standing interest from Vasco president Pedrinho, who has monitored the forward’s situation closely since 2024. Richarlison and his family are known supporters of the club, an emotional tie that sources suggest could influence the player’s perspective should he decide to leave Europe.
Domestic rivals enter the race
Complicating matters further, Vasco face domestic competition for the forward’s signature. According to reports from Rádio Itatiaia and, Atlético-MG has also entered the race, opening preliminary talks to understand the conditions required to secure Richarlison on a possible loan deal.
Tottenham squad omissions limit European avenues
Crucially, however, the forward was left out of Tottenham’s squad registration for the Premier League season, casting doubt over his immediate playing time in England.
Furthermore, the timing of the transfer windows limits his immediate European options. The primary transfer windows across England, Spain, Germany, Italy, and France closed recently, alongside secondary markets in the Netherlands, Portugal, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. With those avenues shut, a return to Brazil has emerged as a viable scenario for a player seeking regular minutes.
Uncertainty surrounds a South American return
Despite the domestic interest and his omission from Tottenham’s Premier League squad, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the player’s immediate appetite for a return to South America. According to ESPN Brazil, reporting by journalist Bruno Andrade indicates that Richarlison currently holds no immediate desire to return to Brazilian football, suggesting that even passionate fan campaigns from clubs like Vasco might not sway his immediate career preferences.
As the situation develops, both Vasco and Atlético-MG await further clarity from the player’s camp regarding his willingness to consider a move during the ongoing transfer cycle.
