Tottenham Hotspur and Everton are engaged in discussions over a potential double transfer involving Iliman Ndiaye and Richarlison, according to reports, with both moves treated as entirely separate deals rather than a swap arrangement.
While nothing has been finalised, there is genuine interest from both clubs to push the transfers through before next Tuesday's deadline. Both players are understood to be open to exploring new opportunities away from their current clubs.
Ndiaye's situation at Everton has been building for some time. The Senegal international has rejected several contract extension offers from the Toffees over the past year, suggesting his long-term future lies elsewhere. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his position, Ndiaye remains a regular fixture in Everton's side, having played the full 90 minutes in the club's recent 1-1 draw away at Bournemouth. Last season, he was a productive contributor going forward, registering six goals and three assists in what was a solid campaign for the winger.
Richarlison's situation is somewhat different, with Everton boss Roberto De Zerbi appearing less certain about the Brazilian forward's immediate future. Speaking after Everton's defeat to Newcastle, De Zerbi admitted he was unsure of the exact circumstances but acknowledged Richarlison's repeated desire to leave the club.
"He said too many times [that] he wants to leave," De Zerbi said, addressing the forward's situation directly.
Richarlison was notably left out of Everton's matchday squad for the Newcastle game, fuelling further speculation about a potential exit before the window closes.
The Richarlison and Ndiaye situations are not isolated cases at Goodison Park. De Zerbi also revealed that defender Kevin Danso and midfielder Pape Matar Sarr have both informed the club of their desire to depart this summer. The Italian manager explained that Everton are now working through the financial logistics required to facilitate exits for those seeking a fresh start.
"Danso came to me two days ago, and he said he wants to leave, and Pape Sarr, the same, but he suffer[ed] a small injury, but he is almost ready to train," De Zerbi explained.
De Zerbi struck a philosophical tone regarding the wave of departure requests, making clear he holds no personal grievance against any of the players involved but insists the financial side of any exit must work for the club.
"I love these players, they are great guys, I have very good relationships, but if they want to leave, they have to bring the solution, the economic solution, to the club, and they can go, and we find other players," the Everton manager said.
The comments underline a broader shake-up at Everton as the transfer window enters its final stretch, with the club seemingly prepared to sanction several high-profile departures provided suitable financial terms can be agreed with interested parties.
Everton are not solely focused on outgoing business, however. The club remains in talks with Manchester City over a second loan move for winger Jack Grealish, while also holding an interest in signing Fulham defender Kenny Tete as they look to reshape De Zerbi's squad ahead of the crucial run-in to the deadline.
With several deals potentially moving simultaneously, Everton face a busy final week of the transfer window as they balance significant departures with incoming reinforcements, while Tottenham look to capitalise on the uncertainty surrounding two of Merseyside's most sought-after attacking talents.
Based on reporting from Standard Sport.