Everton want to keep deals for Richarlison and Harry Winks separate which could prove a "stumbling block" for Tottenham, according to Daily Star journalist Paul Brown.

Having fallen out of favour in north London, Winks is currently in talks over a move to Goodison Park, although Spurs are keen on signing the Brazilian forward, which means a swap deal could come into play.

What's the latest news involving Richarlison and Winks?

According to Sky Sports' Michael Bridge, the England midfielder, who made just nine Premier League starts under Antonio Conte last season, remains in discussions with Frank Lampard's side over a potential switch to Merseyside.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

Bridge adds that Tottenham want to get Winks off their books with a permanent deal, but the Toffees are more interested in a loan with an obligation to buy.

Meanwhile, Spurs are hoping to sign Richarlison and could use Winks as part of the deal to bring the price down for the forward, who's currently being valued at around £50m.

But Brown reckons that Everton aren't interested in any sort of swap deal and want to keep them separate.

What did Brown say about Richarlison and Winks?

He told GIVEMESPORT: "From Spurs' point of view and it would make it a lot cheaper if they could try and package that all together, but as far as I understand, Everton want it kept totally separate and that might be a stumbling block at the moment."

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Why might Everton want the deals done separately?

While this might prove extremely frustrating for Tottenham, it's not difficult to see why Everton might want it to play out this way.

If Lampard's side get their wish and sign Winks on loan and receive £50m for Richarlison, they'll not only be in good profit from the two deals, but they won't have to sign the Tottenham man at the end of the season if he doesn't perform well.

On the other hand, if the Champions League outfit end up paying £30m and Winks for Richarlison, with the midfielder valued at £20m, Everton will be £20m worse off and could be stuck with a player they don't necessarily want.

Therefore, from a financial point of view, it makes complete sense as to why going down this route could be a smart option for the Merseysiders.