Cristian Romero’s proposed move from Tottenham Hotspur to Inter Milan may face some roadblocks as another club enters the race this summer.
Roberto De Zerbi has said he made no efforts to convince Romero to stay at Spurs, hinting that the 28-year-old had made it clear to him last season that he wants a new challenge.
An exit from North London looks inevitable for the Argentine, who is still on his summer break after suffering heartbreak in the World Cup final.
While Italian outlets have said that Tottenham and Inter are edging close to an agreement on the 28-year-old, an old admirer of Romero is now back in the race.
Diego Simeone is keen on poaching Cristian Romero from Tottenham
Over the last 24 hours, several outlets have reported that Atletico Madrid have reignited their interest in Romero after exploring a deal for the centre-back last summer.
This has now been backed up by journalist Nicolo Schira, who has revealed that the La Liga side have now reopened talks with Tottenham Hotspur regarding the defender.
In fact, the journalist adds that Diego Simeone ‘loves’ Romero and sees the Spurs man as the ‘perfect’ centre-back for his side.
Schira wrote on X: “Atletico Madrid have opened talks to try to sign Cuti Romero from Tottenham. Cholo Simeone loves him and considers Romero the perfect centre-back for Atleti.”
Why Romero’s head is likely to be turned by Atletico’s interest
It was reported earlier in the summer that Romero’s top preference is to move to Spain this summer, as he seeks a new adventure away from the Premier League.
Given that the Tottenham man was keen to link up with Simeone in the Spanish capital last summer, one would think that Atletico re-entering the race would turn his head.
Either way, it is good news for Spurs, who will be hoping that a bidding war ensues between the La Liga and Serie A sides and pushes up the price.