Richarlison: Poised for Stardom in Saudi Arabia?
Keith Wyness, the former CEO of Everton, recently shared his thoughts on the future of Tottenham Hotspur’s star forward, Richarlison. Wyness, who now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs, believes that the Brazilian forward would be “lauded and worshipped” in Saudi Arabia if he were to complete a summer transfer to the Middle Eastern nation.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness emphasized the potential for smaller Saudi clubs to elevate their profiles by signing a high-caliber player like Richarlison. The 66-year-old, who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009, pointed out that these clubs are actively seeking ways to make a name for themselves, and acquiring a player of Richarlison’s caliber could be a significant step in that direction.
Richarlison has been linked with a move to the Middle East in several recent transfer windows, and sources close to the situation have suggested that a transfer could be imminent, with the deadline set for August 31. The Brazilian forward’s potential move comes at a time when Tottenham Hotspur is actively searching for a new striker to fill the void left by Harry Kane’s departure.
Last season, Richarlison managed to score 12 goals in 31 appearances across all competitions, with 21 of those outings as part of Ange Postecoglou’s starting lineup. His performances have caught the eye of several clubs, and his attacking prowess and flair have made him a sought-after player. Richarlison joined Tottenham from Everton in 2022 and still has three years remaining on his contract with the North London club.
Wyness, in his endorsement of Richarlison, highlighted the forward’s Brazilian style of play and his ability to score spectacular goals as key reasons why he would be a hit in Saudi Arabia.
“I know the Saudi market enough to know that any Brazilian player is lauded and worshipped,” Wyness said on the podcast. “Richarlison is a player capable of scoring spectacular goals, and he plays in a typical Brazilian style. I think he’d be a good name for Saudi, a true ‘wow’ signing.”
The former Everton chief also mentioned that many clubs outside the big four in Saudi Arabia are looking to make significant signings to boost their reputations. He believes Richarlison would be a valuable addition for any of these clubs, as his skills and presence on the field could help them achieve greater recognition both domestically and internationally.
“As I’ve mentioned before, there are many clubs outside the big four who are looking to make a name for themselves, and Richarlison would be a great purchase for any of those sides,” Wyness added.
Richarlison’s potential move to Saudi Arabia could mark a new chapter in his career, offering him the chance to become a key figure in a burgeoning football market. The prospect of being “lauded and worshipped” in a country that holds Brazilian footballers in high regard could be an attractive proposition for the 27-year-old forward. As the transfer window deadline approaches, the football world will be watching closely to see if Richarlison makes the move to Saudi Arabia and embraces the opportunity to become a star in a rapidly growing football landscape.
