Vasco chase Richarlison despite loan rejection, legal route looms

Vasco are still trying to sign striker Richarlison after Tottenham of England turned down a loan proposal because of a FIFA rule, leaving the Brazilian club to explore alternative routes to complete the deal.

Tottenham rejected the loan offer, citing the FIFA regulation that prevents the player from being loaned out under the current circumstances.

Entenda the legal battle

According to RTI Esporte, Richarlison’s representatives are preparing a legal challenge against Tottenham, arguing that the English club’s actions could constitute an impediment to the player’s professional activity.

The player was omitted from the Premier League registration list and has been sent to train with the club’s Under-21 side, a move his agents say is unlawful.

The legal team claims the situation may breach professional‑exercise rules and points to the precedent of Renan Lodi’s case.

In early 2026, left‑back Renan Lodi was not registered by Al‑Nassr for the Saudi league, sued the club, won a unilateral contract termination and subsequently signed for Atlético‑MG.

If a court orders Richarlison’s contract to be terminated, Vasco could sign him even after Brazil’s transfer window has closed, because the decisive factor would be the date the termination request was filed, not the window deadline.

Financial hurdle remains

Vasco are also negotiating directly with Tottenham, but the English club is demanding more than £20 million (approximately R$138.4 million), a sum the Rio de Janeiro side says it cannot afford.

Other clubs, including Everton of England and Trabzonspor of Turkey, have also been rebuffed on price during the transfer window.

Atlético‑MG have recently made an enquiry for the striker, adding further competition for a potential market move.

Richarlison, who rose to national prominence at Fluminense after being revealed by América‑MG, moved to Watford in 2017, later played for Everton before joining Tottenham.

He shone at the 2022 World Cup, scoring three goals in four matches, including a bicycle‑kick strike against Serbia, and now Vasco’s hopes rest on either a settlement with Tottenham or a favourable court ruling.

Foto: Rafael Ribeiro/ CBF / RTI Esporte