Cristian Romero could leave Tottenham this summer, with Arsenal among the surprise names showing interest.
As per the latest transfer news, Arsenal have entered talks over a shock deal for Cristian Romero, even though Tottenham view them as bitter rivals. Reports now say the Argentine star wants to leave north London for good, and a move may already be taking shape.
Cristian Romero Draws Arsenal Interest
As reported by TEAMtalk, the Gunners want to sign Cristian Romero. They may pay close to €40 million for the defender to get fresh cover at the back. William Saliba is injured and could be out for weeks. Manager Mikel Arteta likes what the Argentine brings on the pitch, especially in English football. Andrea Berta, the club’s sporting director, is said to be leading the push.
This deal is not straightforward. Arsenal and Tottenham rarely trade players. They are big rivals in north London. Still, deals like this do happen at times. Money and timing often decide these things. Fans on both sides have taken note of this news fast. Some fans call it one of the boldest rumours of the summer.
As reported by CaughtOffside, Arsenal made contact with the player’s camp. But Spurs would rather sell abroad. They do not want to help a rival club. That makes a move to Arsenal difficult at this stage. Still, nothing is signed yet, so anything could change fast. Both clubs could still walk away if the valuation doesn’t suit them.
Why Tottenham Want To Sell Him
Cristian Romero has played for Tottenham for five years. Since joining from Atalanta in 2021, he has grown into a top Premier League defender. He even won the World Cup with Argentina. He is strong and fast, and he loves to attack from the back, but his time at the club may soon end. Roberto De Zerbi wants fresh options at centre-back.
As reported by Football365, Romano thinks it is over for him at Tottenham. The club already has enough centre-backs. That fits with news from July, when Inter Milan first showed interest. Inter had discussed a fee near €44 million. That link has grown stronger with each passing week.
So Tottenham appear ready to sanction his exit. They just want the right price. But they will not sell to a rival close to home. That one rule has shaped this whole story. It also explains why this news has caused such a stir and shows how fierce this rivalry still is off the pitch.
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Where Cristian Romero Could End Up
Atletico Madrid look best placed for Cristian Romero. Diego Simeone is keen to bring his countryman to the club. As reported by FootballTransfers, personal terms are close to being finalised. That removes one big hurdle in this deal. Talks with his agents are said to be moving fast.
Cristian Romero for Tottenham in 2025/26, as per FOTMOB:
Competitions Matches Goals Assists Duels Won Defensive Contributions
Premier League 23 4 1 155 196
UCL 8 1 2 34 54
UEFA Super Cup 1 1 0 2 6
Inter Milan were long the favourite for this move. But their chase has slowed down. Benjamin Pavard has rejected offers, and that blocks funds for a new signing. Atletico are now in direct talks with Tottenham. That gives them clear momentum. Arsenal, for now, remain on the outside.
For now, interest from the Gunners looks more like leverage than a real bid. Nothing in football feels final until contracts get signed. If Saliba stays out for long, Arteta may look at other names before the window shuts. Deadline day often brings unexpected late developments.
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