Premier League
Cristian Romero, a 28-year-old Argentine center-back, is nearing an exit from Tottenham Hotspur during this summer transfer window. Deco has been considering his move to FC Barcelona for months and continues to monitor his situation, but the club needs to free up space in defense and salary margin before making an offer.
The Argentine international is under contract with the English club until June 30, 2029, so any operation will have to involve a transfer. Inter Milan has already started contacts, while Atletico Madrid also keeps the player as an option to strengthen their defense.
De Zerbi does not try to convince Cristian Romero
Roberto De Zerbi has admitted that he has not called Cristian Romero to ask him to stay in London. They exchanged messages after the World Cup semifinal between Argentina and England, but the coach decided to respect the defender's stance.
The coach's words increase the chances of a departure. De Zerbi did acknowledge Romero's behavior and respect since he arrived at the helm, but made it clear that he does not intend to keep any player who wants to pursue another project.
The coach also denied that the center-back wanted to leave the camp early to prepare for the World Cup with Argentina. This version had raised doubts about his commitment, although De Zerbi stated that the player maintained a professional attitude throughout the season.
Romero joined Tottenham in 2021 from Atalanta and has accumulated over 150 games with the London team. Additionally, he served as captain in the conquest of the 2025 Europa League, the club's first continental title since 1984.
Despite his significance in the squad, Tottenham Hotspur is beginning to accept that his cycle may end this summer. The club has brought in center-backs in recent windows and has alternatives like Micky van de Ven, Kevin Danso, and Jan Paul van Hecke.

FC Barcelona needs a defensive departure
FC Barcelona keeps Cristian Romero among the center-backs valued by Deco. The sporting director is searching for an experienced defender to compete in LaLiga, but the operation will not progress until the club first reduces the number of players in that position.
The Barça squad currently has several options for the center of defense. Therefore, a sale or loan would be necessary to open up a spot and generate the required salary margin before making a new signing.
Romero prioritizes competing in LaLiga, which keeps Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in the race. However, neither of the Spanish clubs has yet reached an agreement with Tottenham.
Inter Milan is the team that has made the most progress. Their sports management has acknowledged contacts with the player's entourage and with the English club, although the Argentine has not taken the final step while waiting to see if Barcelona will activate their interest.
Price is not part of Barcelona's plans
The price will also influence the outcome. Tottenham paid around 50 million euros for his transfer from Atalanta, and the duration of his contract allows the club to negotiate without the pressure of an imminent free departure.
The next steps will depend on the departures that Barcelona can manage and on Inter's ability to convince the defender. Cristian Romero will have to decide whether to await an offer to return to LaLiga or accept the Italian project before the market progresses.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Vía libre del Barcelona al fichaje del Cuti Romero
