Richarlison blocks Tottenham teammate from leaving in January
Dominic Solanke will find his Tottenham exit blocked as a result of Richarlison's actions, sources have told Football Insider.
The Brazil international has been cast out of Roberto De Zerbi's squad this season, leaving them severely lacking depth up front, with Solanke their only natural number nine.
As a result, any suggestions that the 29-year-old could be moved on in the January transfer window will be dismissed, as he remains part of their long-term plans.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Tottenham are planning to utilise Solanke as a key part of their side for this season at least.
The England international has struggled in front of goal and suffered numerous injury issues, but given the lack of depth up front, he remains an important player for Spurs.
While Tottenham are expected to look at signing a new striker in the mid-season window, there is a feeling they cannot afford to let Solanke leave as things stand.
Why would Tottenham consider selling Dominic Solanke?
Former Spurs scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Tottenham are planning to sign a "top-class" striker in January which could pave the way for Solanke's exit.
The striker's future is under consideration as a result of his lack of goalscoring prowess in recent weeks, which has become a major problem for De Zerbi's side.
However, regardless of whether they sign a new striker, Solanke is unlikely to be allowed to leave given the lack of depth caused by Richarlison' situation.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Any new striker who came in would be more for competition for places in that Tottenham team at the moment.
"You've got to remember Tottenham are short of forward options right now because of what's happened with Richarlison, he is now out of the picture.
"They can't afford to let Solanke leave in January as a result of that, because then they would be left really short up front and De Zerbi doesn't want that.
"Solanke has struggled with injuries in recent times, I think that's been the thing that's held him back, but I don't think there will be any immediate plans to cut their losses on Solanke."
What is the latest on Richarlison's future?
Tottenham's transfer plans ahead of the January transfer window could largely hinge on what the future holds for Richarlison as he eyes a move away from Tottenham.
The 29-year-old has had a public falling out with De Zerbi and has been entirely left out of the Premier League squad, making his mid-season exit inevitable.
Football Insider revealed on 25 September that Tottenham are now prepared to accept cut-price offers which fall well below their summer valuation of Richarlison.
Spurs are aware they can no longer command the £35million fee which they had reached an agreement with Everton over during the summer transfer window.
Instead, they are likely to set an asking price of £15-20million on the striker, with a number of clubs across world football still interested in luring him away.