Fabrizio Romano has revealed Tottenham’s firm stance on Cristian Romero after Arsenal made contact with the defender’s representatives over a sensational move across north London.
Arsenal’s interest in Romero has strengthened as Mikel Arteta considers whether another centre-back is required following William Saliba’s lengthy injury absence. The Gunners have now gone further than simply monitoring the Argentina international, with Romano reporting that they have spoken to Romero’s agents and asked for information about his situation.
That enquiry has been met with a clear response from Tottenham. Romano says Spurs’ board, management and ENIC ownership are all aligned in their determination not to negotiate a sale with Arsenal.
🚨🎖️ BREAKING: Arsenal have convinced Cuti Romero to join them but Tottenham won’t allow it. [@szyexcl]
I’m lost for words, Cuti. https://t.co/g58UbyfHsC pic.twitter.com/GTbkxQWdbi
— HotspurReports. (@hotspurreports) August 9, 2026
Romano explained that the rivalry between the two clubs makes an agreement extremely difficult, even if Romero’s future remains uncertain. Arsenal have “asked for information”, but Tottenham currently have no intention of strengthening their closest rivals.
Romano’s latest update on Romero’s situation represents a significant development from the initial reports linking the defender with the Emirates. Arsenal’s interest is no longer limited to passive monitoring, with contact now made through the player’s camp.
ReadArsenal previously reported Arsenal’s surprise interest in the Tottenham captain, when there was still uncertainty over how serious that interest really was. The latest update suggests the Gunners have at least explored the possibility of a deal.
Tottenham’s position, however, makes the next step considerably harder. Romano says Spurs would need to dramatically change their stance before meaningful negotiations with Arsenal could even begin.
Mikel Arteta still needs defensive cover
Romero’s future remains worth watching because Tottenham appear more willing to negotiate with clubs outside England. Atlético Madrid are currently the favourites and have already opened talks with Spurs over a potential move.
Romano says Atlético have had an offer worth around €30million plus add-ons rejected and are expected to return with a proposal closer to €40m. That underlines the problem facing Arsenal: Tottenham are not necessarily refusing to sell Romero, but they are determined not to sell him to the Emirates.
Arteta’s need for defensive cover remains clear while Saliba is unavailable. Cristhian Mosquera is currently in line for greater responsibility, with ReadArsenal’s latest team-news coverage outlining how stretched Arsenal’s centre-back options have become.
Romero would bring Premier League experience, aggression and familiarity with defending high up the pitch. He would also represent one of the most controversial transfers imaginable between the two north London rivals.
Arsenal have asked the question and now know Tottenham’s position. Unless that stance changes, Arteta may have to look elsewhere for another defensive reinforcement.
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