“Sell the Pitch, Sell the Goalposts!” – Tottenham Chase Brazil’s Next Superstar as Furious Manager Refuses to Let Him Go
Tottenham Hotspur remain interested in Vasco da Gama’s exciting young forward Rayan, though the Brazilian side are now close to securing him on a new long-term deal.
The 19-year-old has enjoyed an outstanding 2025 season, prompting Vasco to accelerate efforts to protect one of their most valuable assets.
Speaking to Globo Esporte, Vasco’s director of football, Admar Lopes, confirmed that talks over extending Rayan’s contract until 2028 are progressing positively.
“The conversations are advanced and things are going well, both with the family, the agents, and the player himself.
We are confident that, in the coming weeks or by the end of the year, we’ll finalise the renewal. It’s also the player’s wish,” he explained.
Rayan’s current deal runs until December 2026, but the club plan to reward his performances with a pay rise and a much higher release clause.
“A renewal for a player of this calibre means improving everything — salary, contract length, and release clause — all to safeguard Vasco da Gama’s interests,” Lopes added.
Previously, Vasco were seeking around €30 million for Rayan’s transfer, but that figure is expected to rise once the extension is signed.
Vasco manager Fernando Diniz has echoed the admiration surrounding the young striker.
Responding to recent praise from Brazilian legend Romário, Diniz told ESPN that Rayan might already be the most complete striker in the country.
“When I arrived here, I said he was unsellable. Sell the pitch, sell the goalposts, but don’t sell Rayan.
His potential is enormous. He’s only at the beginning of his journey. Perhaps he’s the most complete striker in Brazilian football — without a shadow of a doubt,” the coach said.
Diniz also commended Rayan’s versatility and skill set. “He can play wide, as a number nine, or even as a ten.
He’s strong, explosive, left-footed, and scores goals. He has every quality you’d want in a top player — he’s truly special.”
Tottenham, meanwhile, remain keen admirers. The North London club were the first Premier League side to make concrete moves for the youngster, sending scouts to Brazil last month and contacting the Brazilian FA to assess his work permit eligibility.
While a renewal could push his price higher, Spurs are expected to keep close tabs on Rayan as the January transfer window approaches.
