According to Mundo Deportivo, as cited by The Mirror, Barcelona are keeping their tabs on Brazilian defender Emerson. The player currently plies his trade at the Brazilian club Atletico Mineiro and has attracted interest from a number of big-name clubs including Arsenal and Liverpool.
Barcelona secured the signature of the Ghanaian international Kevin-Prince Boateng on loan from Sassuolo to stabilise their attack for the rest of the season. However, the Blaugrana have found it difficult to restrict the opposition from scoring goals against them on many occasions and are reportedly looking to add more steel to their defensive lineup with the inclusion of a player like Emerson.
The player is known for his blistering runs down the right flank and could provide an edge to the Barcelona defence as well as attack with his physical presence and pace. With backup right back Nelson Semedo not being able to replicate his form from the last term, the 20 year old Brazilian could well be the backup Barcelona need for their injury-prone Spanish international Sergi Roberto.
Emerson has made 25 appearances for his current club Atletico Mineiro and has notched up one goal and one assist this season so far to show for his efforts. Though it would be a tougher challenge for the young defender to face the top class players in La Liga, his physicality and pace could come in handy to make him a dominant force in the Barcelona backline if the Catalan giants manage to land him this January.
It has not been all easy going for Ernesto Valverde this season with his side being ravaged with a number of injuries to key players. It is essential for him to add some players who could provide significant strength to the team for some time to come.
Emerson could be one such player and his inclusion into the Barcelona lineup could provide them with the energy and exuberance that has been missing from their side in recent times.
