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Cape Town - Premier League side Everton have reportedly turned down an £85 million bid for Brazilian Richarlison from La Liga giants Barcelona.
The 22-year-old is an important player for Blues manager Carlo Ancelotti, who was appointed in late December last year following the sacking of Marco Silva.
Barcelona are currently a striker short with Luis Suarez sidelined with a knee injury.
The Uruguayan underwent surgery on his right knee earlier this month and will be out for the rest of the season, the club confirmed.
The Catalans are now are seeking a replacement as they hope to claw their way back to the top of the La Liga table while also gunning for the Champions League.
According to the Daily Mail, Richarlison recently put pen-to-paper on a fresh five-year deal to remain at Goodison Park.
Everton are lagging in the bottom half of the Premier League table and would not want their best player to be sold despite a huge cash return if they were to agree to the move.
Richarlison joined the Merseyside Blues from Watford in 2018 for £35 million and has since netted 21 goals goals in 57 appearances.
"It's a nice feeling when you receive praise for good work, but I am not thinking about a transfer at the moment," said Richarlison when asked about the Barcelona's reported interest last year.
"I have just joined Everton. I am happy here."
Everton are currently 12th on the log and will resume their Premier League campaign on Saturday, February 1 as they travel to Watford.
Kick-off is at 17:00.
- Compiled by Tashreeq Vardien
