Tottenham are preparing for the possible departure of defender Emerson Royal, who is reportedly close to joining AC Milan.
Former Spurs defender Alan Hutton has commented on the situation, indicating that the club are likely to be looking for defensive reinforcements.
Emerson looks set to leave north London, with personal terms reportedly already agreed for a move to Italy. The planned deal includes a five-year contract worth €3m (£2.5m) per year.
Tottenham, who initially spent £25m on Emerson when they signed him from Barcelona in the summer of 2021, are now aiming to recoup a similar figure. However, Milan are aiming to complete the transfer for around £15m.
Emerson has struggled to secure a starting place under new manager Ange Postecoglou, having lost his place to Pedro Porro. Last season, he made 22 Premier League appearances, starting just 11.
The 25-year-old defender’s performances have been inconsistent, with Hutton saying that while Emerson has shown potential as an attacking full-back, he has not consistently met the high standards required.
Alan Hutton says Royal can’t play in Ange’s system
Hutton believes Pedro Porro will remain Postecoglou’s first-choice right-back. However, he also admits Tottenham will likely be looking for reinforcements to replace Emerson as a back-up option.
The need for a reliable defender who can integrate seamlessly into Postecoglou’s tactical set-up is evident, and the club are expected to pursue such a player in the transfer market.
Speaking to Tottenham News, Hutton said:
“They have Porro to play there.
“With Emerson Royal, I’ve said before that when he first came in I really liked the way he looked, he looked like a really attacking full-back who would fit into Ange’s way of playing now to a certain extent, but I don’t think he can really get on the pitch.
“But I think I’ve seen it enough and I don’t think he’s the answer. I don’t think he’s that guy that you can rely on week in, week out to give you a high level of performance. I think he makes too many mistakes at times.
“I’m sure they paid a lot of money for him and trying to get him back will be difficult, but I understand why they are now in the market and looking for reinforcements.”
As Emerson’s departure looms ever closer, the Spurs’ focus is on securing new defensive talent to bolster their squad for next season.
