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

Tottenham Hotspur and Everton have reached separate agreements that will see Iliman Ndiaye move to north London while Richarlison returns to Merseyside. These deals come amid a turbulent start to the Premier League season for Spurs, who remain winless.

According to reports from The Athletic, both transfers are distinct transactions despite their timing overlap. The deals still await medical checks and finalizing personal terms. Ndiaye’s switch follows his refusal of multiple contract extension offers from Everton last season.

Ndiaye Eases Blow After Missing Out on Gakpo

Spurs had been tracking Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo but lost out as he chose to join Manchester City under Enzo Maresca. Ndiaye’s arrival helps Tottenham recover from missing that target.

De Zerbi Addresses Richarlison’s Transfer Requests Amid Club Turmoil

Recent days have been chaotic for Tottenham. Head coach Roberto De Zerbi confirmed that Richarlison, along with Kevin Danso and Pape Matar Sarr, formally asked to leave before the transfer deadline. All three were left out of the 2-0 home defeat 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 almost ready to train."

Despite these requests, De Zerbi insisted there is no bad blood. "I love these players, they’re great guys. I have very good relationships with them. But if they want to leave, they must bring an economic solution to the club so we can find other players."

Richarlison’s Return to Everton Comes After Mixed Spurs Spell

Richarlison departs Tottenham after scoring 32 goals in 134 appearances since his £60 million move in 2022. His return to Everton marks a comeback to a club where he became a fan favourite, having scored 53 goals in 152 games previously.

The £350 million overhaul at Tottenham is facing setbacks. Big-money signings like £100 million midfielder Sandro Tonali and former Manchester City forwards Omar Marmoush and Savinho have yet to make significant impacts. Spurs narrowly avoided relegation last season and currently sit at the bottom of the table after losing their opening two league matches without scoring—a first since 1974-75.

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

Deadline Day Rush for Medicals and Replacements

Both clubs now face a hectic schedule to complete medicals and paperwork for Ndiaye and Richarlison before Tuesday’s transfer deadline. Tottenham also needs to secure replacements if Danso and Sarr finalize moves away.

De Zerbi urgently requires his squad to bounce back, making the swift integration of Ndiaye crucial to ending Tottenham’s goal drought this Premier League campaign.