Tottenham Hotspur are keen on landing a South American centre-back this summer, but their pursuit has just become more complicated.
Reports indicate that Cristian Romero is expected to leave Tottenham even if they avoid relegation from the Premier League.
While Spurs will be boosted by the return of Luka Vuskovic after his breakout season on loan at Hamburg, the Lilywhites are reportedly also scouring various centre-backs on the market.
It has been suggested that Tottenham could look to replace their captain with another Argentine centre-back, but Spurs have now received some bad news regarding their transfer target.
Chelsea have ‘upper hand’ in race for Tottenham target Lautaro Rivero
Reports from South America have claimed that Tottenham are fans of River Plate starlet Lautaro Rivero, who has emerged as one of the most consistent centre-halves in the Argentine top-flight.
The 22-year-old looks destined for a move to Europe, and TuttoMercatoWeb have now revealed that Spurs are not the only club exploring a move for the youngster.
The outlet claims that Udinese are eyeing reinforcements at centre-back as they expect both Oumar Solet and Thomas Kristensen to leave the club, and they have set their sights on the River Plate man.
However, the outlet adds that ‘Chelsea appear to have the upper hand’ in the race for Rivero, although he is not the only defender on the Blues’ wishlist.
Two other clubs could challenge Spurs for Rivero
It was previously reported by El Crack Deportivo that Man United are ready to challenge Tottenham for the Argentina international’s signature this summer.
The update revealed that the young defender has a release clause of €100m (£87m) in his contract, which puts River Plate in a strong negotiating position.
Additionally, some sources have suggested that Atletico Madrid have also registered an interest in the Tottenham defensive target.