3 Under-23 signings who could help strengthen Barcelona's defense

#2 Emerson

Atletico MG v Palmeiras - Brasileirao Series A 2018

While Nelson Semedo might be a more than capable right-back in his own right and one of the best in Europe in his position, the fact that he was the only recognized specialist right-back at Nou Camp for many years was an anomaly to say the least.

This situation led to the redeployment of Sergi Roberto from his preferred position in midfield to the right of defense and the signature of Moussa Wague from AS Eupen in 2018 helped alleviate this concern a bit.

However, given the Senegalese international's relative lack of experience, there was still an underlying feeling that the club might need another right-back.

They did just that when they signed Brazilian Emerson from Atletico-MG in January 2019 for the sum of €12.7m effective from July 1, 2019, loaning him out to Real Betis for the remainder of the 2018/2019 season.

At the Estadio Benito de Villamarin, the 20-year-old starred in six LaLiga matches, catching the eye with his defensive solidity, although his attacking output still leaves a lot to be desired.

Emerson would ostensibly compete with Moussa Wague as backup to Nelson Semedo although he could be sent out on loan or demoted to the Barcelona B team to gain further experience for the future.