By Isaac Mission
Cristian Romero’s future at Tottenham Hotspur appears increasingly uncertain, with Atletico Madrid continuing their efforts to sign the club captain while Barcelona have reportedly decided against pursuing the Argentine defender.
Romero has emerged as one of Atletico Madrid’s top defensive targets this summer following the Spanish club’s recent player sales.
The La Liga side previously submitted an offer worth €30 million plus €5 million in potential bonuses, but Tottenham rejected the proposal.
Atletico are expected to return with an improved bid of around €40 million (£34.2 million) as they attempt to reach an agreement with Spurs.
Romero, who remains under contract with Tottenham until 2029, has reportedly given the green light to a move to Atletico Madrid. However, negotiations over his proposed contract and financial terms are yet to be concluded.
Barcelona Decide Against Romero Transfer
Fabrizio Romano has now provided an update on Barcelona's interest in the World Cup-winning defender.
Barcelona had previously been mentioned as a potential destination for Romero, particularly while Atletico were still working to reach an agreement with the player.
However, Romano says the Catalan giants have now decided not to pursue the Tottenham defender.
According to the transfer expert, Barcelona's decision was made collectively by the club and head coach Hansi Flick.
Romano stated that Barcelona are currently not working on a deal for Romero, although he acknowledged that circumstances could change before the transfer window closes.
The latest development leaves Atletico Madrid as the leading contender for Romero's signature.
Tottenham Reject Arsenal Possibility
Romero has also been linked with a shock move to Arsenal, despite the intense rivalry between the two North London clubs.
Reports had suggested that the Tottenham captain could be open to the possibility of joining Arsenal.
However, Romano insists Tottenham have no intention of allowing Romero to make the controversial switch.
He explained that the direct rivalry between the two clubs makes a transfer extremely unlikely, with Tottenham's ownership and management reportedly opposed to doing business with Arsenal over the defender.
Atletico Remain in Strong Position
With Barcelona seemingly out of the race and Tottenham unwilling to negotiate with Arsenal, Atletico Madrid currently appear to have the clearest path to signing Romero.
The Spanish club, however, must still convince Tottenham with an improved offer and reach an agreement on the financial details of the proposed transfer.
Romero's future could therefore become one of the major transfer stories involving Tottenham before the window closes, with Atletico continuing to push for the Argentine centre-back.
