Real Betis Defender Emerson Explains Barcelona 'Plan' After Impressing in La Liga
By Ben Carter
Real Betis right-back Emerson has suggested he isn't looking to complete a move to Barcelona until 2021 and insists he feels at home at the Estadio Benito Villamarín.
The 21-year-old spent the 2018/19 season on loan in Andalusia before making the move permanent, but unusually Emerson was actually bought by two clubs at the same time, with both Barcelona and Real Betis splitting his £10.8m transfer fee.
Speaking about the deal which saw him move to La Liga on a permanent basis, Emerson insists that he's planning on spending two-and-a-half years with each club and as things stand he won't move to Catalonia until 2021.
"A lot of people say that I was bought by Barcelona and loaned to Betis, but I was bought by Betis as well," Emerson said, quoted by Sport. "The plan is to have two-and-a-half years here and two-and-a-half years at Barcelona.
"Betis are a fantastic club for whom I have huge affection and I consider this my home. I'm adapting to La Liga here, to later play at Barça. I'm a Betis player until May 2021.
"If there had been a deal with Barça it would be inevitable to go, but I'm not thinking about going early. I'm thinking about doing my job and focusing on playing here."
The Brazil international has made 20 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring three goals and picking up five assists to help Real Betis open up a 10-point gap above the relegation zone.
Emerson's already establishing himself as one of the most exciting defenders in Europe right now, but contrary to popular belief the 21-year-old isn't actually on loan at Real Betis.
If he does move to Catalonia before 2021, Barcelona will likely just pay Real Betis an extra portion of Emerson's initial transfer fee.
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