Everton are reportedly in talks with Tottenham over a possible deal to bring the Brazil international back to Merseyside before Tuesday's transfer deadline.

The situation escalated after Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi revealed that Richarlison had been left out of the squad for Saturday's 2-0 defeat to Newcastle.

De Zerbi claimed the striker had repeatedly asked to leave the club.

But Richarlison responded with a lengthy message on Instagram on Monday, giving his own account of the situation and making it clear that he wants control over the next step in his career.

"After everything I've been through in the last few years, I've decided that never again will anyone decide my future for me," Richarlison said.

"I went through a lot of bad things, and almost all of them happened because decisions were made by other people.

"Pressure, threats, retaliation - none of that scares me. I've been through far worse, believe me."

Richarlison said he had always respected Tottenham's position during previous discussions about his future and expected the club to show him the same respect.

"I've always made it clear, every time I had the chance, that leaving for another club would only happen if it was also good for the club," he said.

"If it wasn't, I would never accept it. Just like I didn't accept it when everything was going badly and they needed me.

"I stayed and gave everything. So, I hope they treat my situation with the same respect I've always shown Spurs and everyone who worked with me during this period.

"Just don't try to decide for me."

The 29-year-old also confirmed that he would be open to returning to Everton, where he spent four successful years between 2018 and 2022 before joining Tottenham.

"If they reach an agreement between Spurs and Everton, I will return to my beloved club," Richarlison said.

"My intention was to go back to the place where I was very happy, yes, but the negotiations happened only in the way certain people wanted, and it will no longer be like that."

Despite his frustration, Richarlison stressed that he remains a Tottenham player and would continue to fulfil his responsibilities if a transfer is not completed.

"Despite all this turmoil, I am under contract at Spurs and will remain at the club's disposal," he added.

Richarlison has struggled for consistency since arriving in north London four years ago, although he scored 12 goals during the 2025-26 campaign as Tottenham narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League.

Richarlison sends Tottenham warning ahead of potential Everton move