Barcelona boss Setien wants to bring back Brazilian defender but faces deadline issue

The Camp Nou awaits the return of full-back to Blaugrana as Nelson Semedo’s position in jeopardy.

FC Barcelona has denied the claims over the future of Nelson Semedo. But Eric Abidal met with Jorge Mendes in Dubai to discuss the future of the latter’s client. Several proposals for the Portuguese were rejected in the summer transfer window. A complete reversal of fortunes took place for the right-back at Camp Nou due to his recent injury. Also, the rise of Sergi Roberto limited him to the bench.

Semedo was ruled out for five weeks due to a calf knock suffered against Celta Vigo. As Semedo recovered on the sidelines, La Masia talent Roberto transformed from a midfield substitute to a better option on the defensive line. He has impressed with his creativity and mobility as he looks to hold onto the full-back position. Semedo has a contract with Barca until 2022 along with a release clause of €100 million but is no longer considered an integral part of the team. 

The Blaugrana boss Setien is already looking for options to build his team for next season. Emerson has emerged to be a favorable choice for the new coach. He reportedly is keeping a close eye on Emerson’s development at Real Betis. The Barcelona loanee has impressed with performance at the Benito Villamarin with three goals and five assists this season in 17 appearances.

Emerson to Barcelona impossible for now?

Quique Setien attended a press conference on Tuesday just before their Copa Del Rey fixture. According to reports, he admitted that he knows Emerson well as he continues to monitor the lad. It appears that Setien is ready to utilize the right-back as he returns back to Camp Nou. Setien said, “Emerson’s time at Barca will come”.

Unfortunately, the Brazilian cannot join the Blaugrana side until June 30, 2021. Real Betis sporting director Alexis Trujillo has also denied the claims of the right-back joining Barcelona before the due date. The deal of the Brazilian’s pursuit consisted of a joint financial operation between Barcelona and Betis. Each of the clubs paid half of the transfer fee and to gain a percentage of Emerson’s economic rights from Athletic Mineiro.

Emerson is a modern wing-back who can ace in both defense and midfield, making him suited for Barca’s preferred tactics. Barcelona can sign Emerson for €6 million, with Betis attaining a portion of any future sale. It doesn’t seem that Verdiblancos will be easy to convince to let go of the starlet earlier than it was agreed on. Emerson admires to play beside Leo Messi and his side.