Everton

Everton

Premier League • England

Big lift for Everton and Frank Lampard as European giants drop interest in Richarlison

Richarlison of Everton

A report claims Champions League finalists Real Madrid have dropped their interest in Richarlison, in a big boost to Frank Lampard and Everton.

The attacker enjoyed a decent campaign in front of goal, even though it was a tough season for Everton. Richarlison hit 11 goals, as well as chipping in with five assists, during 33 appearances.

Everton relied heavily on Richarlison for goals as forward partner Dominic Calvert-Lewin was kept out for much of the campaign with a fractured toe.

Richarlison finished as Everton’s top scorer, four goals ahead of Andros Townsend in second place.

The 25-year-old will be hoping for a solid start to the 2022-23 season so he can shine for Brazil at the World Cup in Qatar.

But reports suggest Richarlison could end up appearing for another team by leaving the Toffees this summer.

Everton are in financial difficulty and selling the 34-cap international would be a good way to balance the books.

Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern and Real Madrid are all thought to hold an interest in Richarlison.

Twist in Richarlison transfer rumours

The four clubs believe he can become even more deadly in front of goal if he plays alongside world-class stars.

But Everton have been given a lift. According to Sky Sports Italia journalist Gianluca Di Marzio (via Goodison News), Real Madrid are not planning to launch a move at the end of the season.

They are also preparing to pull out of the race for AC Milan attacker Rafael Leao.

Moving to the Bernabeu could have been a good option for Richarlison. It would have seen him take a big step up in his career. Plus, the player could have reunited with former Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti.

However, Los Blancos have no plans to snare the Toffees goalscorer in the summer. The report does not reveal why this may be the case.

Perhaps they are willing to rely on Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior for another year. The duo have been integral to Real reaching this season’s UCL final.

Of course, United, Bayern or PSG could still put Everton under pressure by submitting bids for Richarlison. But they have a better chance of keeping him now the list of potential suitors is down by one.

Richarlison may want to remain on Merseyside for another season to see how much Everton can improve under Lampard.

If they fail to get any better during 2022-23, then next summer may be an ideal time to move on.

Meanwhile, Everton could pursue a Burnley forward who is available for a good price after the Clarets’ recent relegation.