Aston Villa will hope to sign 27-year-old Brazilian right-back Emerson Royal from Flamengo after advancing talks for a summer deal.
According to an update by Brazilian journalist Vene Casagrande, Emerson Royal is surprisingly the subject of interest from Aston Villa. The Villans are eager to bolster their defensive unit by signing a right-back in the ongoing transfer window, and they have their sights set on the 27-year-old Flamengo defender.
Per Vene Casagrande, the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League winners are in the decisive stages of negotiations with Flamengo, with talks with the South American full-back also advancing. The Brazilian journalist has suggested that Flamengo are “seriously considering” Aston Villa’s proposal, worth around R$55 million, and that a deal could be completed “at any moment”.
The Emerson Royal renaissance
Emerson Royal has resurrected his stuttering fortunes since joining Flamengo from AC Milan last summer. After an indifferent time in Europe across spells with Real Betis, Tottenham Hotspur, and AC Milan, returning to his homeland has helped the 27-year-old defender rediscover some much-needed stability.
The Brazilian right-back has been impressive in the 2026 season, providing four assists in 21 appearances across all competitions while accumulating over 1,500 minutes of game time. Emerson’s exploits for Flamengo have stimulated the interest of several well-known clubs, with Aston Villa among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
Premier League return on the cards?
Aston Villa’s interest in Emerson Royal is somewhat perplexing, but they need a right-back in the off-season. The Villans are scouring the market for a solution, as widespread reports have linked Andres Garcia with a move away from the club. The Spaniard is keen on seeking greener pastures after becoming a peripheral figure during his stint with the West Midlands outfit.
Garcia’s departure will leave Unai Emery with Matty Cash as the only recognised right-back in his squad, with Ezri Konsa being a makeshift option for the position. So, Aston Villa must pursue a recognised right-back, with several candidates, including Oscar Mingueza, emerging as targets.
However, it seems Emerson has become a top target for Aston Villa after they recently submitted an offer to sign him. With talks between all parties advancing and Flamengo contemplating accepting Villa’s offer, a summer agreement may be on the cards. However, the Brazilian right-back will be a risky acquisition after his struggles with Tottenham, though he will feel he has unfinished business in the Premier League.