Born in France to an American father who played basketball, representing Morocco at the international level, and now heading to Italy, Amir Richardson has a diverse background. Standing at 6ft 6ins, the midfielder is set to expand his horizons further in Serie A.
Last week, HITC reported that Richardson had garnered significant interest from English Premier League clubs, including Brentford, Leicester City, Tottenham Hotspur, and Everton.
Everton, in particular, made an inquiry and were quoted around £8.5 million for the player, who had a standout season with Stade de Reims in France’s top-flight. In the end, Reims agreed to a deal with Fiorentina for just 10 million euros, putting the Premier League interest to rest for now.
Tottenham and Everton were both keen on signing Richardson
It’s unclear how serious the interest from English clubs was, but Brentford may regret not pursuing him more aggressively, especially after their deal to bring in Jens Cajuste from Napoli fell through, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Everton, on the other hand, still have a gap to fill in their midfield after the £50 million transfer of Andre Onana to Aston Villa. Richardson, who is even taller than Onana, might have been a strong solution to this problem.
As part of Morocco’s 2024 Olympics team, Richardson revealed that he consulted fellow Moroccan Sofyan Amrabat before joining him in Florence.
“Of course I spoke to Sofyan,” Richardson told Tuttomercatoweb at his official unveiling. “Both before and after I arrived, he recommended this club to me, saying it was wonderful.
“I know I’m at a big club. I have to give everything I can. It can only be good for me, then it’s up to me to prove myself.
“I want to stay with the club as long as possible. I have no specific expectations other than to go as far as I can, even in Europe. I don’t set limits for myself.
“I want to score more goals and aim to be the best on the pitch.”
Comparisons with Paul Pogba have naturally arisen as Richardson combines technical ability with physical presence, and he doesn’t shy away from them.
Inspired by Paul Pogba, the Serie A newcomer stated, “Pogba, for me, is a great player with immense quality. I think I have a similar profile, and I’m inspired by him,” said the 22-year-old Nice-born midfielder. “He has physical characteristics similar to mine. I learn from him and other great players.”
Richardson did not disclose the other clubs that tried to sign him after Reims’ strong finish in the top half of the table, but he did admit that Fiorentina felt like the perfect fit as soon as they showed interest.
“There were several negotiations, but I liked Fiorentina’s project right away,” he added. “Also, because of the quality of the players. My journey includes moves like this, and if the club is right for me… I’ll join.”
Tottenham remains interested in Richardson, though it’s uncertain if they will pursue another midfielder after securing a £65 million record deal for Dominic Solanke. Ange Postecoglou might instead rely on the promising talents of Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray, having successfully fended off competition from ‘every top club in Europe’ for the latter.
