Tottenham Could Make Surprise Transfer U-Turn on £130,000-a-Week Star

Thomas Frank's potential decision to make Richarlison the starting number nine at Tottenham over Dominic Solanke could lead to a resurgence in the Brazilian's performances, making him a compelling option for punters looking to bet on Richarlison's goal-scoring during the upcoming season.

Thomas Frank may spring a surprise by making Richarlison his starting number nine at Tottenham Hotspur rather than Dominic Solanke. TBR Football's Graeme Bailey claims that a close confidant of Frank's told him that the Dane loves the sort of profile the Brazilian offers.

It has long looked likely that the 28-year-old would be leaving this summer, but the managerial change could change matters. Richarlison has endured a difficult spell with Spurs since arriving from Everton in a £60m deal in the summer of 2020. He has struggled to reach expectations and came in and out of the starting XI during Ange Postecoglou's time in charge.

Richarlison started Spurs' 1-0 Europa League final win over Manchester United on the left of a three-man attack, which came as a surprise. He started over captain Son Heung-min, but he impressed with his persistent pressing and hard work. Bailey suggested that it's those playing traits that could lead to Frank making him the Lilywhites' number nine, which the player desires:

"I was speaking to someone who knows Thomas Frank very well. Just in general about everything, and they were saying to me, don’t be surprised if Richarlison becomes that front man for Thomas Frank. He loves that sort of mobile closing down."

Frank worked with a similar attacking workhorse in Bryan Mbeumo at Brentford, and reports suggest the Manchester United target is now on the club's radar. This could rule out any move for a new number nine and see the 51-year-old put his faith in Richarlison and Solanke to battle it out for the starting berth.

Richarlison, who sits on £130,000 per week, is reportedly seeking to be the starting number nine amid growing speculation over his future. He has two years left on his contract but was linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League earlier this year.

Bailey added: "I thought Richarlison would be going. We know everything like him and a possible loan deal etc. And we know he’s already rejected Saudi. He doesn’t want to go to Saudi at this point in his career. But I think it’s one to keep an eye on.”

Richarlison vs Dominic Solanke (Premier League 2024-25)

Player: Richarlison Solanke Appearances: 15 27 Goals: 4 9 Expected Goals (xG): 3.72 10.97 Scoring frequency: 129min 245min Big chances missed: 6 12

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Richarlison made six of 24 appearances across competitions on the wing last season. Frank got the best out of a Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa partnership at Brentford, but has used a target man of Solanke's ilk in the past. His Bees attack before last season centred around Ivan Toney as a sole striker with accompanying wingers.

All statistics courtesy of SofaScore - correct as of 13.06.2025.

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