Newcastle United could be set for battle with Premier League rivals Everton and Tottenham over Barcelona’s Emerson this summer.
That’s what Mundo Deportivo report today, stating that all three clubs are keen on a move for the right-back.
The newspaper explains that Emerson, who is part-owned by Real Betis and has spent the season on loan at the Spanish club, could be made available this summer.
Originally Barcelona planned to leave him at Betis for another year, but his situation has taken an ‘unexpected turn’ in recent days with him becoming ‘sought-after’ on the market.
As such, Barcelona are now contemplating a sale to boost their own coffers and know, with ‘certainty’ that there are suitors in Europe.
The Premier League is one potential destination and Newcastle are among those ‘sounding out’ Barcelona about a transfer, although they are yet to make a ‘formal offer’ for the 21-year-old.
Barcelona are ‘not opposed’ to a sale in any regard, even though they may have to pay a fine to get him out of Betis.
His situation is a little complicated, though. While he is a Barcelona player and has a deal with them until 2024, Betis own 50% of his rights.
Barça, therefore, would need to buy him outright and have an option to do so, either this summer or next, for €9m.
They, then, would presumably be looking for a price above that figure to ensure they can make a profit should they sell this summer.
Emerson, for his part, ‘does not rule’ out a move despite it always having been his ‘first desire’ to return to Barcelona and establish himself there.
He, though, is eyeing up an international call-up with Brazil and wants European football as he knows that can speed up the process.
That would put Newcastle on the back foot in terms of a deal unless Steve Bruce’s side enjoy a strong end to the season and secure a Europa League place ahead of the competition first.
Any potential move is surely dependant on their takeover too. Should that go through there will be money to spend, but if it is rejected, which looks likely, funds will be as tight as they always have been under Mike Ashley.
