Premier League
Cristian Romero, a 28-year-old Argentine center-back, is closer to leaving Tottenham Hotspur after reaching an agreement with Inter Milan for around 40 million euros. Despite FC Barcelona targeting him in the transfer market, the Italians have practically secured him as the operation now depends on the player's contract, who is asking for a net salary of six million per season.
The Italian team has resumed negotiations with Tottenham and has already made progress on the transfer terms. The next step will be to bridge the economic differences with Romero's camp, with his contract with the English team expiring in June 2029.
Cristian Romero negotiates a six-million salary
Inter Milan needs to finalize the personal terms with Cristian Romero before completing the deal. The player's representatives are demanding six million euros net annually, an amount that exceeds the wage structure proposed by the Italian board.
The club is working to lower those demands and reach a middle ground. With an agreement between the clubs around 40 million, the focus now shifts to discussions on the salary, bonuses, and the duration of the new contract.
Romero extended his contract with Tottenham Hotspur in August 2025, committing until 2029. This provided negotiation leeway for the London club, although both parties have acknowledged that a departure could end a chapter that began in 2021.
Initially arriving on loan from Atalanta, the Argentine made his move permanent a year later. During his time in London, he played over 120 official matches, assumed captaincy, and won the Europa League in 2025.
FC Barcelona has not presented an offer
The name of Cristian Romero also features in FC Barcelona's planning. The sports management values his experience and knowledge of Spanish football but has not initiated negotiations or proposed anything to Tottenham.
This lack of action gives the Inter an edge. Barcelona would need to match a deal around 40 million euros and also reach a salary agreement with the player to change the current scenario.
Atletico Madrid has also been monitoring his situation but remains in the background. For now, Inter is the sole contender advancing simultaneously with the player's rights owner and agents.
Romero started for Argentina in the World Cup final against Spain, winning the title in 2022. His performance in the recent tournament sparked interest from several teams, yet none have matched the level of agreement reached by the Italian club.

Inter Milan prepares changes in defense
Romero's request aligns with Cristian Chivu's plans to strengthen Inter's defensive options. The club recently signed John Stones on a free transfer after his Manchester City contract ended, securing him until 2028.
His arrival could accelerate Benjamin Pavard's departure, who returned after a loan spell at Olympique de Marseille. Chivu also has Manuel Akanji, Alessandro Bastoni, Yann Bisseck, and Carlos Augusto for the defensive line.
A move to Inter would see Romero return to Italy, where he played for Genoa and Atalanta before heading to England. He made his mark in Serie A during the 2020/2021 season, being recognized as the league's best defender.
Upcoming talks will focus on the six million net demanded by Cristian Romero. If his agents lower the request or Inter improves its offer, the transfer could be completed before the season begins. Meanwhile, FC Barcelona maintains interest but has yet to make an offer.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Barcelona pierde el fichaje del Cuti Romero
