The captain departs: Inter-Barcelona race for Romero

The man wearing Tottenham's armband has become the centrepiece of the club's summer operation. According to Fabrizio Romano's exclusive report, Cristian Romero is leaving Tottenham this summer. How the process unfolded is notable in itself: Inter sat down with Tottenham in recent days during talks over Djed Spence, with Romero's name raised as an option by the English club during those discussions.

The Italian giants' interest is clear, but there is an obstacle. Inter are said to be keen on the Argentine defender, but the cost is reported to be too high for the club. Barcelona are also said to admire the player, though they have yet to make a concrete move.

On Tottenham's side, the picture has long been clear. The club is reported to be demanding a fee of around €50 million for the defender; Spurs had already prepared for Romero's departure by signing Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke. This shows the captain's exit is no surprise but rather the outcome of a planned process.

On the player's side, a return to Spain stands as the priority. The 28-year-old, who joined from Atalanta in 2021 and is under contract until 2029, is reported to prioritise a move back to Spain in his career; Atlético Madrid are also said to be in the race, through his connection with fellow Argentine head coach Diego Simeone. Tottenham, meanwhile, are reported to want to recoup the £42.5 million they paid Atalanta in 2021; the file, caught between Serie A and La Liga, is expected to remain active throughout the summer.

Source: Fabrizio Romano
Image: Yahoo Sports