Tottenham complete move for Barcelona right-back Emerson Royal

Tottenham have completed the signing of right-back Emerson Royal from Barcelona on a five-year deal.

Spurs have spent £25.8million to secure the services of the four-capped Brazil international, the PA news agency understands.

Emerson, who has spent the last two seasons with Real Betis, will provide greater competition at right-back for new Tottenham boss Nuno Espirito Santo.

He said in a video on Twitter: “I’m here to show my joy, to be in the best league in the world and at one of the best clubs in the world.

“I’m very happy for the opportunity that Tottenham is giving. I’m looking forward to arriving soon to get a taste of this wonderful club. Come on you Spurs, see you soon.”

The 22-year-old, who was born in Sao Paulo, first came to prominence in his native country with Ponte Preta and Atletico Mineiro before a move to Europe occurred in 2019.

A joint-deal with Barcelona and Real Betis saw the defender ply his trade in Spain, initially with the Seville-based side where he was a regular during each of the last two seasons.

Emerson officially signed for the Catalan club earlier this summer but has now joined Tottenham, where he will be able to link up with his new team-mates later this week.

The right-back, who featured for Brazil in the Copa America this year, will not have to isolate on arrival in the UK from Spain and could make his debut in Spurs’ Premier League fixture at Crystal Palace on September 11, subject to international clearance and a work permit being granted.

Later on deadline day, fellow full-back Serge Aurier’s contract was terminated a year early – leaving him able to sign for any club as a free agent – while centre-back Cameron Carter-Vickers joined Celtic on a season-long loan.