Barcelona have announced the signing of right-back Emerson Royal from Real Betis on a deal that runs until 2024.
The Blaugrana have now exercised their option to buy the player outright for €9 million (£8m/$11m), with Goal having initially reported that the deal was close on May 29.
Officially announcing the switch on Wednesday, a Barca statement read: “FC Barcelona have informed Real Betis Balompie that they are exercising their right to bring back Emerson Royal from July 1 after two seasons on loan at the Andalusian club.
“Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil on 14 January 1999, Emerson Aparecido Leite de Souza Junior, better known as Emerson Royal, is an attacking right-back who will be involved in the upcoming Copa America with the Brazilian national team.
“The defender will bring pace and an attacking dimension to the right wing as the Brazilian has scored five goals and created 10 assists with Betis, the club at which he has played since a three-way agreement was reached involving Atletico Mineiro in January 2019.”
Speaking earlier this week, Emerson Royal said: “It’s a three-year contract. They’ve always said they were counting on me for next season. Having this recognition is a great thing for a footballer.
“I’m glad, it’s a club I have dreamt of playing for since I started in football. To be recognised like that is a big thing for me. Every player wants to play for Barcelona. I want to go there and show what I can do and establish myself at my position.”
Emerson Royal is an attacking right-back who has played for Real Betis over the last two years.
Before joining Betis, Emerson played for Brazilian sides Ponte Preta and Atletico Mineiro.
Emerson Royal will also be involved in the upcoming Copa America with the Brazilian national team.
