Romero’s Barcelona preference
Cristian Romero, a defender for Tottenham Hotspur, has reportedly paused discussions regarding a potential move to Inter Milan. His representatives are said to be maintaining communication with Barcelona’s sporting management, hoping for a late transfer to the Catalan club. Romero is on Barcelona’s list of potential acquisitions, but the club has indicated that a move would only occur if one of their current defenders or full-backs departs.
According to reports, Inter Milan had offered Romero a four-season deal with a salary slightly below his current earnings at Tottenham, but with additional years on the contract. However, talks stalled from the player’s side, and no agreement was reached on a transfer fee. Tottenham is reportedly seeking 50 million euros, though they are open to negotiation. The English club is prepared to let the Argentina international leave, and a loan with an option to buy has been considered if Romero continues to push for an exit.
Romero’s desire to wait for Barcelona became clear after Deco showed interest in signing him. This has led Inter Milan to agree terms with Manchester City defender John Stones, whose contract is nearing its end. This development suggests that Inter would only pursue Romero if they manage to sell Pavard during the current transfer window.
Barcelona’s defensive strategy and salary concerns
Barcelona’s sporting department is actively working in the transfer market, even as the squad is in England for pre-season preparations. While new centre-forwards like Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi have arrived, the club is also considering a new centre-back, particularly if an existing player leaves.
Barcelona reportedly values Romero as a player. However, a move is considered unlikely due to his high salary, which may not align with the Catalan club’s current wage structure. The club is operating under strict salary constraints and aims to avoid complications with La Liga’s Financial Fair Play rules. Therefore, a transfer for Romero to Barcelona currently appears improbable.
Despite the salary concerns, Romero is reportedly willing to take a pay cut to facilitate his registration with Barcelona. Time could also be a factor, as Tottenham needs to offload players, and Romero is scheduled to report for training with the London side from 10 August.
Barcelona is exploring two main options for reshaping their defensive line. One option is to sign a top-class defender if a current defender or full-back, such as Araujo or Kounde, departs. The second option is to pursue a younger player with potential for growth, ideally a left-footed defender. The Salinas deal is still on the table for Barcelona, but the club is unwilling to meet Racing’s asking price of 16 million euros.
Current defensive setup at Barcelona
For Barcelona, manager Hansi Flick plans to rely on Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin as his primary starting centre-back pairing. Eric Garcia is also an option, and Flick reportedly holds Andreas Christensen in high regard, having played a significant role in his contract renewal.
Ronald Araujo has reportedly expressed no intention of leaving the club, despite increased competition for places within the squad. Alvaro Cortes, who made his first-team debut late last season, is also considered a potential option for the manager.
Source: goal.com
Priya Nair
Sports Reporter
