Spurs need to battle Pochettino and London clubs to sign £22m-rated right-back – TBR View

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Tottenham Hotspur’s decision to bring Matt Doherty to the club from Wolverhampton Wanderers has ultimately failed to work. The right-back has not given Spurs the attacking outlet he provided at Wolves – while looking shaky in defence.

Serge Aurier has fallen out with Jose Mourinho and is clearly not trusted by the Portuguese gaffer – so much so that Japhet Tanganga has emerged as a proper option for Spurs going forward at right-back. But Spurs need a summer signing in that area.

Meanwhile, the race is hotting up for Barcelona ace Emerson Royal. The 22-year-old has starred for Real Betis over the past couple of seasons as Betis and Barcelona entered a deal in which he would stay with Betis between 2019 and 2021.

This summer, that spell will end – and he will join Barcelona for the next three seasons. But should Barcelona be willing to cash in – a figure of £22million (Goal) said to be enough – 20% will go to Betis. Plenty are interested, and it is hardly surprising.

In 69 games during two seasons, he has had a hand in 15 goals for Betis – even earning a Brazil cap. Mundo Deportivo state Arsenal are interested, while Goal reckon Mauricio Pochettino and PSG are keen. Italian reports suggest West Ham want him.

Pacy, strong, both defensively solid and efficient in attack, Emerson is a top, top right-back. At £22million, he is a bargain especially as he is still very young and clearly has a huge future in European football. Tottenham have to be interested.

He would suit Mourinho’s side to a tee. Adding him would solve the right-back dilemma, but facing Pochettino, Arsenal and West Ham as competition will be tough. If a deal can be done for Emerson, though, then Spurs have to do everything they can.