Report: Spurs want Emerson Royal but put off by £21.7m asking-price

Add as preferred source on Google

Spurs are still interested in signing Brazilian full-back Emerson Royal this summer, but are unsure on the reported £22m asking-price.

That’s according to Estadio Deportivo, who claim that Barcelona will look to cash in on Emerson this summer. The right-back is currently playing for Real Betis but is part-owned by Barca, who have an option to increase that stake.

And Estadio Deportivo claims that while Spurs are keen on Emerson, they are baulking at the price. Barca are said to be demanding around 25m Euros for the full-back, which equates to just shy of the £22m mark.

Jose Mourinho is said to be desperate to improve his defence this summer. Serge Aurier has remained inconsistent, while Matt Doherty has struggled to hit the heights he did with Wolves.

Emerson, 22, has played for the Brazil under-23s and has made 26 appearances this term for Betis, scoring once and setting up a further four.

TBR View: Spurs will want bargains this summer, they’re right to be cautious here

The problem with Emerson is he hasn’t exactly set the world alight and if Barcelona are so willing to sell, does that suggest he’s not quite up to the job at the very top level?

At £22m or so, Spurs will want a full-back who can deliver as soon as he arrives. Emerson is a good age and has gained experience with Betis but whether he can step into the PL is another issue entirely.

Spurs, then, could well look elsewhere and move swiftly on from this one.