Fabrizio Romano confirms Tottenham are close to selling a defender

Tottenham Hotspur are expected to have a squad clear-out this summer. With key players such as Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Ivan Perisic and Ryan Sessgnon already leaving the club this summer, it is clear that Ange Postecoglou is making wholesale changes.

So far, Tottenham have signed Min-hyeok Yang, Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall. Ange Postecoglou is not yet satisfied with his transfer business as he's expected to make both signings and sales before the transfer window ends.

Fabrizio Romano confirms Tottenham are close to selling a defender

According to an update from the trusted transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on X (formerly Twitter), Tottenham Hotspur are on the precipice of selling Emerson Royal to Italy. AC Milan are expected to complete their final talks today (Monday) and then when the green light is given, Emerson Royal will leave Tottenham to join AC Milan.

I must admit, it's been a long time coming. Emerson Royal is not at the standard which Tottenham would like to reach and admittedly, he does not show any fight or desire to reach that level. So, the right call is to sell Emerson Royal this summer. He is a likeable character and one who clearly possesses potential, so hopefully he can unlock this potential in the North of Italy.

The one thing which Emerson Royal did have going for him was his versatility, which made him a valued squad member. Ange Postecoglou often relied on Royal whenever he had full-back concerns, since the Brazil international could play on either side of the defence. However, he struggled to stake a claim in a fully-fit starting eleven, so the kindest thing for all parties was always to sell him.

It is likely, then, that Tottenham will be in the market for a new full-back signing. With Ivan Perisic and Ryan Sessegnon already being sold and Emerson Royal and Sergio Reguilon likely to follow, Ange is in need of reinforcements before the 2024/25 season begins.

Do you think Tottenham should sell Emerson Royal?