The Emerson Royal saga at Tottenham has been dragging on for way too long with no clear resolution in sight. It became evident very early on in the transfer window that the player was seeking a new adventure.
Not being picked by Brazil in the Copa America 2024 squad proved to be the final nail in the 25-year-old’s coffin who quickly realized that he had to move to a club where he would be a guaranteed starter if he harbored any Selecao hopes.
Emerson has been a useful servant for Spurs over the years. Overtly ridiculed in his first few months at the club, the ex-Barcelona man has worked on his game and improved what he brings to the table over the years.
Last season, Ange Postecoglou used Emerson like a swiss-knife, filling in gaps wherever needed in defense. However, the presence of a fit and firing Pedro Porro meant he almost never got game time in his preferred right-back role.
As per Fabrizio Romano, the Italian journalist, the £40,000 per week could see his future reach a resolution soon with AC Milan set to hold talks with Spurs again on Monday. By this week, there is a good chance Emerson is no longer a Tottenham player.
Having already signed Archie Gray from Leeds United earlier this transfer window, Spurs have a readymade solution for Porro. It helps that the teenager can also play in midfield and can deputize at right-back when needed.
Postecoglou is unlikely to have minded having Emerson Royal in his squad for next season. The Aussie tactician values versatile players and finds a role for them in his team. From a player’s perspective though, this does make a lot of sense.
If Spurs get this deal over the line for Emerson, it’ll be more cash for them to reinvest into the market for other positions. Let’s hope an agreement is reached soon.
