Tottenham and Everton Agree Swap: Iliman Ndiaye to Spurs as Richarlison Returns to Everton

Tottenham Hotspur and Everton have reached agreements in principle to exchange players Iliman Ndiaye and Richarlison amid a rocky start to the Premier League season for Spurs. Ndiaye is set to join Tottenham, while Richarlison prepares for an emotional return to Everton.

Separate Agreements for Ndiaye and Richarlison

According to reports from The Athletic, both clubs are finalizing deals that will see Ndiaye move north to London, with Richarlison heading back to Merseyside. Though the timelines overlap, these transfers are independent of each other and still depend on medical clearances and personal terms. Ndiaye’s arrival helps Tottenham recover after missing out on Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo, who chose to join Manchester City instead.

De Zerbi Comments on Richarlison's Transfer Request

The transfer news arrives following a chaotic period for Tottenham. Coach Roberto De Zerbi revealed that Richarlison, along with Kevin Danso and Pape Matar Sarr, formally asked to leave before the transfer deadline. They were all left out of the 2-0 home loss to Newcastle United.

"Richarlison, I don’t know. He said too many times he wants to leave," De Zerbi said. "Danso came to me two days ago and said he wants to leave. Pape Sarr the same, but he suffered a small injury, though he’s nearly ready to train."

Despite the tension, De Zerbi emphasized good relations with the players and added that if they want to leave, they must bring economic solutions for the club.

Richarlison's Return to Everton and Tottenham's Struggles

Richarlison departs Tottenham after scoring 32 goals in 134 appearances since his £60 million move in 2022. He returns to Everton, where he scored 53 goals in 152 games and was a fan favorite.

Tottenham’s ambitious £350 million summer rebuild has faltered, with big signings like £100 million midfielder Sandro Tonali and former City forwards Omar Marmoush and Savinho yet to make an impact. Spurs narrowly avoided relegation last season and now sit bottom of the league after losing their first two matches without scoring—something not seen since 1974-75.

• Match results: 2-0 loss to Newcastle (goals by Anthony Elanga and Yoane Wissa)
• 3-0 defeat at Brentford

Deadline Day Pressure

Both clubs face a rush to complete medicals and finalize paperwork before Tuesday’s transfer deadline. Tottenham also needs to find replacements if Danso and Sarr leave.

De Zerbi urgently requires a response on the pitch. Quickly integrating Ndiaye will be critical as Spurs try to halt their decline and score their first goals of the season.

• Upcoming fixtures:
• 5 Sept 2026: Nottingham Forest vs Tottenham Hotspur
• 6 Sept 2026: Everton vs Manchester United