Richarlison reveals PSG held talks over potential transfer from Everton
Tottenham Hotspur and Brazil forward Richarlison has revealed that Paris Saint-Germain made several attempts to sign him during his time at Everton. In an interview with France Football, the striker confirmed there were multiple contacts with the French champions, particularly during periods of uncertainty over Kylian Mbappé's future at the Parc des Princes.
Richarlison, who was at Everton at the time of the discussions, stated that the French giants made contact "every time Mbappé was set to leave". The Brazilian international, who eventually joined Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2022, expressed his desire for the move at the time, citing a desire to play with his international teammate Neymar, with whom he shares a close bond. Richarlison has a tattoo of Neymar's face on his back, alongside tattoos of Brazilian legends Ronaldo and Pelé, and described the PSG forward as "like a brother".
The 26-year-old also opened up about a difficult period of depression he experienced following the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he scored a memorable scissor-kick goal against Serbia. He described a year and a half of struggle, stating he was "slapped in the face every day" by his mental health. He credits his wife with helping him through that time, crediting her with "saving his life" and pulling him back from a dark period where he had considered self-harm.
Despite the strong connection with Neymar and the allure of playing alongside his compatriots at the Parc des Princes, a transfer to the French capital never materialised. Richarlison moved to Tottenham for a fee of £60 million in the summer of 2022, where he has since become a key figure in Ange Postecoglou's side. The failed move to PSG, which would have formed a formidable all-Brazilian attack with Neymar and the now-departed Lionel Messi, remains a notable 'what if' for the player, who is currently preparing for the Copa America with Brazil this summer.
The striker's revelation provides a glimpse into the complex and often reactive nature of the transfer market, where a major departure like Mbappé's would have triggered a significant chain reaction. Richarlison's form has been a bright spot for Spurs this season, with the forward crediting his improved mental health and stability off the pitch for his performances on it, as he continues to lead the line for both his club and the Brazilian national team.
