Both The Times and The Guardian report that Shepherd will travel to Australia in the next two weeks to hold talks with the £4million-rated Feyenoord star.
With Arsenal reported to be set for transfer talks with Leeds United’s Harry Kewell their rumoured £10million summer budget looks to be spent, leaving Newcastle United and Middlesbrough as Emerton’s only Premiership options.
But as The Guardian rightly point out with Lee Bowyer already on his way to St James’ Park Emerton’s most likely first team place would be at right back, and he has previously stated that he would only sign for a club where he could play in midfield.
Unless Sir Bobby is planning to resurrect the 3-5-2 formation which has always failed in the past.