Tottenham star is attracting interest from La Liga giants
Under-fire Tottenham Hotspur skipper Cristian Romero found himself at the centre of controversy after transfer deadline day.
Spurs fans have also vented their frustrations at the club’s ownership after what was another underwhelming transfer window, failing to back beleaguered boss Thomas Frank. The squad has been ravaged by injuries, forcing Thomas Frank to patch up starting XIs in recent games.
Following the current condition of the squad, coupled with the board’s failure to back the Danish tactician, Cristian Romero went public by releasing a statement on his social media account, criticising ENIC. The Argentine said it was “disgraceful” that Thomas Frank’s side only had 11 senior players available for last weekend’s thrilling 2-2 draw with Manchester City.
A day later, reports emerged that the centre-back is keen to leave the north London club at the end of the season. Cristian Romero’s outburst on social media not only screams the club’s failure to match his high ambition, but also the mood of the dressing room. And a top-class defender finding himself in such an uncertain situation at his club hasn’t gone unnoticed across Europe.
Thomas Frank addressed Cristian Romero's half-time substitution vs. Man City
Thomas Frank addressed Cristian Romero’s half-time substitution vs. Man City
Barcelona eye move for Cristian Romero
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Barcelona are eyeing a summer swoop for Cristian Romero, but face competition from La Liga rivals, Atletico Madrid.
The 27-year-old, who has been a pivotal figure at the heart of the Lilywhites’ defence in recent years, is ready to quit at the end of the season. This is because he has become extremely frustrated with Tottenham’s lack of ambition and vision when it comes to their transfer strategy, and wants to enjoy the prime years of his career for a club competing in the Champions League and for major honours.
The South American star, happy with Spurs’ summer spending, decided to extend his stay until 2029. However, their failure to build on it in January has left Romero disappointed. The report adds that the club’s key decision-makers have reassured Romero that a massive rebuild is planned for the summer of 2026, where the shortcomings in Frank’s current squad will be addressed.
Cristian Romero posted a cryptic message on Instagram, aiming a dig at Tottenham hierarchy after transfer deadline day
Cristian Romero posted a cryptic message on Instagram, aiming a dig at Tottenham hierarchy after transfer deadline day
While it could take a substantial fee for the likes of Barcelona and Atletico Madrid to lure Romero away from England, Tottenham will find it an uphill task to replace their skipper. The 2022 World Cup winner is not someone our club can easily replace, either in stature or in personality. It is also worth noting that Lionel Messi had already wanted him at Barcelona, way back in 2021, before the Argentine great made his switch to PSG.
If he feels it is time to move on, the Hotspur Way chiefs may need to produce something gigantic in the next transfer window to keep hold of him.
All in all, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid showing an interest in signing Romero isn’t shocking. Their La Liga rivals, Real Madrid, also remain keen on the Cordoba-born star. So, it remains to be seen whether the Argentina international sticks around and stays loyal to Tottenham or heads for newer pastures.