Cristian Romero has made a decision on his future
The Argentine centre-back had interest from several clubs, most notably Atletico Madrid, Barcelona, Inter Milan and Arsenal, but according to reports relayed by SPORT, he has now chosen the Rojiblancos’ project.
The decisive factor, according to the report, was Diego Simeone’s persistence over three consecutive transfer windows.
Atletico have been determined to sign Romero for some time, particularly after the defender’s impressive World Cup.
Simeone has repeatedly pushed for his arrival and appears finally to have convinced the 28-year-old that Madrid is the right destination.
Barcelona, meanwhile, had Romero on their list of targets but had a different preference for the position.
Barcelona preferred a left-footed centre-back
The Catalan club has generally prioritised a left-footed defender to partner Pau Cubarsí, who remains Hansi Flick’s undisputed first choice in the centre of defence.
That profile has made players such as Aymeric Laporte and academy graduate Álvaro Cortés more natural fits for Barcelona’s plans.
More recently, the La Liga champions have also been credited with an interest in Real Betis and Brazil defender Natan.
Romero’s decision, therefore, represents a setback for Barça, but not necessarily a major blow to its defensive planning.
Tottenham set a €40 million asking price
Romero still has a contract with Tottenham Hotspur until 2029 and has a market value of around €50 million.
The London club has placed a €40 million asking price on the Argentine, although Atletico’s opening proposal, led by sporting director Mateu Alemany, was believed to be around €30 million.
Inter Milan, another interested club, would be prepared to go as high as €35 million.
Romero is looking for a new challenge after spending the last five seasons at Tottenham. Before moving to England, he spent three seasons in Italy with Genoa and Atalanta.
Atletico talks intensify
According to the report, negotiations between Atlético, Tottenham and Romero’s representatives intensified on Monday.
The remaining issues include the defender’s salary and the bonuses that could be included in the transfer agreement.
For now, Romero remains in his native Cordoba on holiday, where he has also been attending local events.
But with Atlético now reportedly his preferred destination and negotiations gathering pace, Barcelona’s hopes of bringing Romero to Catalonia appear to be fading fast.
