A new team-mate for Cristiano Ronaldo? Al-Nassr make £20m move for Tottenham's ex-Barcelona defender Emerson Royal

The Saudi Pro League outfit have benefited considerably from the steady stream of European-based talent heading to the Middle East. Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo started that trend back in January 2023 following his release by Premier League giants Manchester United.

He has since been joined in Riyadh by the likes of Sadio Mane, Marcelo Brozovic and Aymeric Laporte – although the latter is said to be feeling unsettled. It could be that another fresh face is welcomed through the doors in the coming weeks, with an initial approach made for Brazilian full-back Emerson.

According to the Daily Mail, a £20 million ($25m) offer has been knocked back by Spurs. That is because the north London outfit have struggled with injury issues this season, forcing Emerson to provide cover across their defensive line. Nominally a full-back, the Brazilian has played at centre-back on several occasions under Ange Postecoglou this term.

Emerson is not guaranteed minutes when everybody is available, and that could work in Al-Nassr’s favour if they return with an improved bid. The South American has taken in 93 appearances for Tottenham since joining them from Barcelona in 2021.