Cristian Romero to leave Tottenham: two suitors, Inter or Barcelona

The uncertainty surrounding the future of Tottenham's captain is coming to an end. According to Fabrizio Romano's exclusive report, Inter Milan have been offered the chance to sign Argentine defender Cristian Romero; Tottenham themselves proposed Romero to Inter during talks over Djed Spence. In Romano's words: "Cuti Romero to leave Tottenham this summer, Inter held talks with Spurs over recent days. Inter keen but costs very high. Barca also like Cuti Romero."

The fee negotiation is the sticking point. Tottenham's captain is reported to command a fee of around £50 million (with some sources putting it as high as €60 million), a figure considered too high for Inter's budget; competition from Barcelona is also said to be complicating the price.

The player's own preference has also clarified the picture. Romero is reported to want a return to Spain, with Barcelona emerging as his favoured destination. David Ornstein has separately reported that Romero has spoken with Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone, bringing the Spanish club into the competition as well — adding a third candidate to the table.

The timing is also significant: Romero has fully rediscovered his form at the World Cup. Having endured a difficult season under Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham, marked by injuries and disciplinary issues, the 28-year-old started every one of Argentina's matches alongside Lisandro Martinez at the tournament, scored the crucial goal against Egypt in the Round of 32, and played his part in the squad that reached the final. Romero, who joined from Atalanta for €53.8 million in 2021 and was made captain after signing a new contract last summer, has a contract running until 2029.

Source: Fabrizio Romano
Image: BBC Sport