- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
Tottenham Hotspur have snubbed an offer from Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr as they push to sign Emerson Royal.
HITC Football understands that Tottenham Hotspur have rejected a bid in excess of £20m for defender Emerson Royal from Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr.
Spurs are in a difficult position as whilst they would be open to Emerson’s leaving in theory, letting him leave would mean they only have Pedro Porro as a recognised right-back.
Ange Postecoglou has just allowed Djed Spence to depart for Genoa and Japhet Tanganga has joined Championship side Millwall on loan.
Al-Nassr are looking at their options but are ready to make a new offer – it is understood Emerson is open to the prospect of a move if a deal can be agreed.
Tottenham should only let Emerson Royal leave if they can wheel and deal
Emerson maybe hasn’t quite lived up to the £26million fee Spurs paid to sign him from Barcelona in 2021.
The Brazilian was supposed to be Tottenham’s long-term solution at right back but it just hasn’t panned out that way.
In fact, Spurs invested in two more right backs after signing Emerson, landing Spence and then Porro to the tune of more than £50million.
Emerson has though proven to be a decent squad player this season, even filling in as a centre back when needed.
The 25-year-old has proven his worth to the Tottenham squad and fans certainly appreciate his impact this term.
Tottenham may be tempted to cash in if they can get their money back on Emerson, but a deal only makes sense if Spurs can find a replacement.
Southampton ace Kyle Walker-Peters would make some sense; a homegrown player who can play at right back and left back if needed.
A move to Al-Nassr – alongside Sadio Mane and Cristiano Ronaldo – may well appeal to Emerson but Spurs simply can’t leave themselves short at the back and can only sanction a deal if a replacement is lined up.
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