Tottenham idol ‘surprised’ by Emerson Royal update amid Antonio Conte ‘twist’
Paul Robinson is “surprised” by Atletico Madrid’s interest in Tottenham defender Emerson Royal.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former White Hart Lane number one does not believe the 23-year-old is good enough defensively to play for a Diego Simeone side.
Emerson has failed to establish himself as a regular starter since arriving to Spurs from Barcelona in the summer of 2021.
A recruitment source told Football Insider (29 June) that Atletico Madrid have tabled an offer for the Brazilian right-back.
Antonio Conte is willing to let him Emerson leave as he looks to reshape his squad.
However, according to Football.London‘s Alsadair Gold (29 June), the defender does not want to leave Spurs this summer.
Robinson suggested Conte is being given greater control over transfers when quizzed on Emerson’s future.
“The manager is being allowed to put his own twist on the squad,” he told Football Insider.
“He has been given the freedom to get rid of players he doesn’t want.
“If Atletico Madrid were to sign Emerson Royal, I would be surprised. When you look at their defensive record, Diego Simeone builds defensively solid teams. I’m not sure why they would want him.
“Lots of chances came down Emerson Royal’s side last season. He does not fit into an Atletico side.”
Emerson made 41 appearances across all competitions for Spurs last season.
The right-back has four years remaining on his contract in north London.
In other news, an expert has claimed Tottenham could seal Michael Carrick-esque signing after meeting is held.