Good news tempered by Man Utd interest in star ‘totally focused’ on Everton
Manchester United have upped their interest in forward Richarlison, according to a respected transfer source, although Everton don’t need to sell.
The Red Devils will be looking to bolster their ranks this summer after an indifferent campaign. They sit seventh in the Premier League table but have little chance of a top-four finish. Ralf Rangnick’s charges are six points behind fourth-placed Tottenham and would need to get past both Arsenal and West Ham as well.
The incoming manager this summer will inherit a side with plenty of talent but little direction. It seems as though that man will be Erik ten Hag who will need to work hard in the off-season to attract the right players.
There has been a great deal of focus on United’s attacking stars in 2021-2022. Cristiano Ronaldo’s return gave the club a boost.
But, while he has scored goals, there has been a sense his presence may have had a negative effect at times. Richarlison has been linked with a move to Old Trafford.
The Brazil ace has bagged seven goals from 26 appearances in all competitions this term. Recent reports claimed the Toffees would need to sell him in the summer to comply with Financial Fair Play rules.
However, it was reported on Thursday that neither the South American nor Dominic Calvert-Lewin will have to be jettisoned. That is welcome news to Everton fans.
But trusted transfer guru Fabrizio Romano insists United do have Richarlison on their radar.
He tweeted: “Everton striker Richarlison and his Velasco Sport Group have now officially signed with CAA Base agency.
“Been told Manchester United have discussed Richarlison internally, alongside Darwin Nunez and other options. Of course no talks now – he’s totally focused on Everton.”
Richarlison crucial to Everton future
It has been a chastening season for the Goodison Park outfit. They are still embroiled in a relegation battle, sitting just one spot above the bottom three.
Victory over United last time out opened up a four-point gap to the drop zone. However, there is still work to do to ensure they remain in the top flight.
Relegation would almost certainly alter the club’s summer plans, with big-name stars like Richarlison likely to depart. That may still happen even if Frank Lampard does manage to keep them up.
The lure of a club such as Manchester United is tough to resist and Everton would net a decent transfer fee. Toffees fans will hope that the new man helming the Theatre of Dreams prefers Nunez to Richarlison.
READ MORE: Ten Hag could part with £20m to raid Tottenham for surprise first Man Utd signing
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