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How £60m Tottenham outcast could become key man for Thomas Frank, at the expense of one marquee signing

Brentford boss Thomas Frank is set to take over at Tottenham.

This comes following Daniel Levy’s decision to sack Ange Postecoglou, just 16 days after the Australian delivered the club’s first trophy in 17 years.

The dismissal came on the back of Spurs’ disappointing 17th-place finish in the Premier League, a decision that left many surprised.

With Frank’s arrival, a change in style and system is expected, which could impact several players in the current squad, both positively and negatively.

New Tottenham boss Thomas Frank applauding the fans when he was the Brentford boss after Arsenal game
Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images

Richarlison could become the main striker for Thomas Frank

One player who could benefit from the new era is Richarlison.

The Brazilian has endured a difficult spell at Spurs, with injuries and inconsistent form limiting his impact.

Postecoglou even signed Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth due to the Brazilian’s inability to dominate the striker role, with Spurs paying around to sign him last summer.

However, TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey has been informed that Richarlison could be handed a fresh lease of life under Frank. In fact, there’s a suggestion that the Dane may even favour Richarlison over Solanke as his main striker.

When asked about Richarlison’s future under Frank, Bailey said: “Really interesting, Richarlison. Actually, 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.

“And let’s not forget when Thomas Frank comes in. I’m not and I’m not denigrating Solanke or anything, but he might end up being the Spurs starting number nine. Richarlison wants to be starting and not just start, he wants to be the number nine.

“And I think it’s fascinating. I didn’t really take that into account. 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’s future at Tottenham

Richarlison has struggled since his big-money move from Goodison Park in 2022 and recent reports stated that Tottenham are looking to sell Richarlison.

Saudi interest in Richarlison has been longstanding, with the most recent approach coming during the January transfer window.

Richarlison turned down a transfer to Saudi at that time, committing himself to an injury-ridden Tottenham side at that time.

While it is now suggested that he could become the key player for Frank, Richarlison’s decision to stay or leave will depend on guaranteed playing time, given that there is a World Cup next year.

New Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti will be keen on selecting him but the player has reportedly been informed that he will need to play regularly for a chance for selection.

Either way, Thomas Frank’s arrival could mark a turning point in Richarlison’s turbulent Tottenham career.