Cristian Romero's future has been the subject of speculation for months, and he continues to be linked with a move away this summer
Cristian Romero
Cristian Romero could depart Tottenham this summer(Image: Getty Images)
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Arsenal are eyeing a shock move for Tottenham captain Cristian Romero amid renewed interest from Atletico Madrid. Romero's future in north London has been uncertain for several months, with the defender repeatedly linked with a move away.
Both Atletico and Inter Milan have been credited with interest this summer, and reports suggest Inter even have a broad agreement in place with Spurs - a deal believed to be worth around £40million including add‑ons. However, The Athletic have now reported that Arsenal are also monitoring Romero's situation.
The Gunners are understood to admire the Argentine, but it's noted that Spurs are currently 'unaware' of any interest from their rivals. In any case, Tottenham would be highly unlikely to entertain selling their captain to a direct north‑London rival, with a move described as 'slim'.
Arsenal's interest in his situation comes amid renewed movement from Atletico, who are coached by Romero's compatriot Diego Simeone. Atleti held strong interest in the defender last summer and have now made the defender an active target once again.
As previously reported, Atletico believe they are still firmly in the running to sign Romero, and are of the belief that the Spurs star would rather move to the Spanish capital than to Milan. Sky Sports reports that Atletico are closing in on a deal to sell Matteo Ruggeri to Aston Villa.
Ruggeri's departure would clear the way for them to push ahead with defensive reinforcements - namely Romero.
Following Atleti's initial interest, Spurs announced last August that the centre‑half had signed a new contract running to 2029 - just days after he was officially named club captain following Son Heung‑min's departure.
But now, his future in north London is far from certain, with both Atletico and Inter seemingly prepared to battle for his signature before the transfer window closes on September 1.
Roberto De Zerbi's Spurs, meanwhile, have already reinforced their defence with the arrivals of Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi, the latter joining on a free after leaving Bournemouth.
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