Tottenham star says Arsenal and Chelsea wanted him

Tottenham Hotspur star Richarlison in a recent statement has said both Chelsea and Arsenal tried to sign him.

Richarlison, who opted to join Antonio Conte’s side from Everton said when he decided to leave the Toffees, numerous clubs showed interest in him.

The Hotspur star was asked about the interest from Chelsea and Arsenal and he told FourFourTwo Magazine, as quoted by Football London: “I was on holiday in Brazil when I heard that Tottenham had made Everton an offer.

“I was happy, because they are a huge team. Then it was all about the clubs negotiating a deal, and fortunately, everything went well. Antonio Conte called me during the negotiations and expressed how much he’d like to have me on board – that was vital for my decision.”

Asked about other clubs that wanted to sign him, he said: “I know Chelsea made an offer, and I believe Arsenal also contacted Everton to ask about my situation, but Spurs came in and paid the fee, you know? It’s as simple as that.

“Everton had to sell some players to avoid a Financial Fair Play problem, and the negotiations were very brief, to be honest. I signed the contract during my holiday in the Pantanal [a remote region of Brazil].”