Speculation over a possible deal between Spurs and their Premier League rivals ramped up over the last 24 hours after Sky Sports reported Daniel Levy had met with Toffees chairman Bill Kenwright.
Monday afternoon also brought news that Spurs were interested in a ‘package deal’ for Richarlison and Toffees team-mate Anthony Gordon - although it is believed Everton have no interest in allowing their talented young winger to depart Goodison Park.
A deal for Richarlison seems more likely over the coming weeks as Spurs manager Antonio Conte looks to further strengthen his attacking options as his side look to challenge of four fronts during the coming season.
Speaking on TalkSPORT, Everton winger Townsend refuted claims that his team-mate would be stepping up in class if he was to join the club where he started his Premier League career.
He said: “I think you’re being slightly disrespectful by calling Spurs a step up!
“I think Everton is one of the biggest clubs in England, one of the most historic clubs, one of the biggest fanbases.
“He’s already a hero at Everton for what he’s done. He’s a fantastic player and towards the end of the season the goals he scored to keep us up. We speak about what Frank Lampard did for the team, why the fans did to lift us, but Richarlison came back from injury, scored goals and kept us up.
“So he’s already got hero status at the club and that’s all you’re getting from me!
“I had years of Wilfried Zaha questions (when he played at Crystal Palace), so I’m used to it by now!”
The likes of Chelsea and Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Richarlison in the last two months but it seems likely he could move to Spurs if they can agree a deal with their Premier League rivals.
Check out the latest Premier League transfer speculation below...
1. Smallbone in demand
Millwall, Sunderland and Burnley are all interested in signing Will Smallbone on loan from Southampton. (Football League World)
2. BURNLEY, ENGLAND - MAY 22: Josh Brownhill of Burnley looks dejected after the Newcastle United second goal scored by Callum Wilson during the Premier League match between Burnley and Newcastle United at Turf Moor on May 22, 2022 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Everton are among the clubs interested in Burnley midfielder Josh Brownhill – alongside Leeds United, West Ham, Wolves, Leicester, Southampton and Brentford. (90min)
3. Martinez keen on PL move
Ajax are ‘mulling over’ a bid of £35m from Arsenal for defender Lisandro Martinez, with the player ‘keen’ on a move to the Premier League. (Charlie Watts)
4. Ake free to leave City
Manchester City have informed Nathan Ake he is free to leave the club this summer, with Tottenham, Aston Villa, Newcastle United, and Bournemouth all interested. (90min)