Tottenham want Barcelona defender as first of two signings Nuno desires
Tottenham want to sign Barcelona defender Emerson Royal as one of two additions that Nuno Espirito Santo desires before the window shuts, it has been claimed.
Emerson has been linked with their arch rivals Arsenal in recent weeks. A swap deal was touted with Hector Bellerin, though nothing has been acted upon with that regard. And Spurs’ interest dates back to earlier this year. They have had their eye on the 22-year-old for a while.
His situation is an unusual one. He was bought jointly by Barca and fellow Spanish side Real Betis from his home country of Brazil.
He has spent the last two seasons at Betis. But this summer he made the switch to the Catalan club on a three-year deal.
They own 50% of the right-back and have the biggest say in his future. And despite Ronald Koeman being a fan, the club are apparently open to his sale.
Tottenham want to make the most of this stance and capture him in the coming days, according to The Telegraph.
Boss Nuno reportedly wants to bolster his defensive options and Emerson would a youthful and promising acquisition.
Not only does he want a reinforcement for his backline, but the report states he also wants a new striker.
Harry Kane staying will have been a big relief to the Portuguese manager, but they are still light in that area.
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Back-up last year was provided by loan signings Gareth Bale and Carlos Vinicius. Neither of them have been replaced this summer.
Their only attacking addition has been winger Bryan Gil. He may allow Heung-Min Son to move centrally, but Spurs really need another out and out striker.
There is no mention of who they are considering for this role. Another loan move similar to that of Bale and Vinicius could do the trick.
Winger slips from Spurs’ grasp
Meanwhile, Spurs look set to lose out on highly-rated Porto attacker Luis Diaz. The 24-year-old impressed at Copa America, finishing joint top goalscorer with Lionel Messi.
Diaz’s representatives were reportedly in talks with both Chelsea and Tottenham this week.
However, the pair could be trumped by Everton. Journalist Paul Joyce is claiming a deal is potentially happening that would see Diaz come to Goodison Park.
In exchange, James Rodriguez would head back to his former club in Portugal on loan.
READ MORE: Everton to use trump card and beat Chelsea, Tottenham to coup signing
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