Emerson (Image credit: Google)
As per Dario de Sevilla (h/t Football.london), Tottenham have made an inquiry to sign Barcelona youngster Emerson, who currently plies his trade with Real Betis on loan.
The report also suggests that Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho is keen to strengthen the right-back spot, with the likes of Serge Aurier and Kyle Walker-Peters on the verge of an exit. However, they will have to face stiff competition to secure the Brazilian’s services as Serie A giants AC Milan and French champions Paris Saint-Germain are also interested in signing Emerson.
Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Emerson started his journey with his hometown club before joining Ponte Preta’s U17 side. After 2 games with the club’s first-team, he was signed by Atletico Mineiro, where he made 23 appearances before moving on loan to Real Betis.
Last summer, he was signed by Barcelona and was immediately sent back to Betis for another two-year loan spell. Halfway through his loan spell, the Brazilian U23 has impressed with the La Liga outfit this season.
Emerson was a regular member of Brazil’s U20 and U23 squad but his impressive performances earned him a call-up to the national side as he made his debut last November. Since then, he has gone from strength to strength.
Spurs finished 7th in the 2019/20 Premier League season despite being in the second half of the table for the majority of the campaign. The arrival of Mourinho helped them put in some good performances and they managed to qualify for the Europa League qualifiers.
However, they have struggled at the back, and it is clear that the club need to reinforce their backline. One key area that needs to be strengthened is the right-back position. Despite limited options, the manager allowed Walker-Peters to leave on loan last January and Aurier was the only player left in that position.
The Ivorian did a decent job going forward but his defensive errors cost them a lot throughout the campaign. And with Aurier linked with an exit, they would be left without a natural right-back if he leaves. Thus, making a move for Emerson seems to be sensible.
The Brazilian has been in form this season at both ends of the pitch. In 33 league games, he racked up 3 goals and 6 assists and could be a useful player for Tottenham next season if he is able to continue with the fine form. He is just 21 and could be seen as a future prospect for the North Londoners.
If Aurier and Walker-Peters leave, the Lilywhites would be left with no option at right-back. Thus, it is clear that they need to bring in someone to cover the right side of the defence. And Emerson, who has shown immense potential this season, could go on to represent them in the long run.
