Reports indicate that Real Madrid is set to offer €50 million (£43.06 million) for one of Tottenham Hotspur’s standout players. Earlier this summer, Los Blancos completed the acquisitions of Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain and Endrick from Palmeiras.
Despite these additions, Carlo Ancelotti announced that no more players would be signed before the end of August, even though veteran players Nacho, Toni Kroos, and Joselu had departed. Ancelotti explained that he did not plan to directly replace Nacho in central defense because Jesus Vallejo was returning from a loan with Granada.
However, if recent reports are accurate, the European champions are ready to act to strengthen their options in central defense. The key target for this reinforcement is Cristian Romero. According to Doble Amarilla, Romero has emerged as the top candidate for Real Madrid.
Over the past three seasons at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Romero has made 96 starts and two substitute appearances in all competitions. Despite some defensive inconsistencies from Spurs in the 2023/2024 season, the Argentina international is seen as an ideal partner for Micky van de Ven in defense.
Romero’s reputation has been further enhanced by his pivotal role in Argentina’s recent Copa America victory. His impact on the international stage is evident, as Argentina conceded only one goal in five matches with him in the lineup.
How will Tottenham Hotspur respond? Given that Spurs paid £42 million for Romero in 2021 and he has three years remaining on his contract, it’s likely they will demand a significantly higher price than what Real Madrid is rumored to offer. Additionally, Romero has recently stated his intention to stay in North London for at least another season, despite the ongoing speculation about his future.
Much will depend on how assertive Real Madrid’s president, Florentino Perez, is willing to be. With both Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba over 30, the La Liga giants will soon need younger replacements. Moreover, Tottenham Hotspur would need to find an immediate replacement for Romero, a challenging task given the current stage of the transfer window.