[Barcelona are currently pursuing Julian Alvarez](https://barcanewsnetwork.com/barcelona-and-atletico-madrid-make-initial-contact-to-discuss-the-future-of-julian-alvarez/), but they could also sign his international teammate this summer. As well as seeking a new striker, the Catalans are keen to address their defence, which is where Cristian Romero could come into the equation.
For months, it has been reported that Barcelona would sign a new centre-back this summer. Hansi Flick’s side struggled defensively last season, especially in the Champions League, without the presence of Inigo Martinez following his 2025 move to Al-Nassr, and thus, there had been moves made towards replacing him.
These plans have cooled down amid pursuit of Alvarez, but they could be about to pick back up again. According to [Gianluigi Longari](https://x.com/Glongari/status/2072251374222320116?s=20), Barcelona are in the race to sign Romero alongside Atletico Madrid, with the defender very keen to leave Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur during this summer’s transfer window.
While it’s clear that improving the attack is necessary for Barcelona this summer, they must also address their defence. They were generally very good in La Liga as goalkeeper Joan Garcia won the Zamora Trophy, but they failed to keep a clean sheet in any of their Champions League matches during the 2025-26 season, which ultimately led to them being knocked out at the quarter-final stage by Atleti.
Bringing in an experienced campaigner to play alongside Pau Cubarsi would be wise, and as far as market options go, Romero would be high on the list. While his temperament can be a problem, he’s a world class defender at his best, and playing in Spain should suit him more than England.
It remains to be seen whether Barcelona do go in for Romero. Any approach is unlikely to happen before the situation with Alvarez is resolved, so the 28-year-old may have to wait a while if he chooses to hold out for the Catalans.