The first transfer from Spurs to Arsenal in 25 years might happen as a surprise star is ‘open’ to the big move.
Cristian Romero might be open to a surprising move from Tottenham Hotspur to Arsenal this summer, according to reports. The 28-year-old defender is expected to leave Spurs, and while a switch to their North London rivals would definitely ruffle some feathers, it seems he would consider it.
The Sun says Arsenal are interested in signing the Argentine defender, but Spurs have made it clear they won’t agree to a deal with their biggest rivals. Instead, a move to a European club looks more likely, with Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan both reportedly keen to sign Romero.
Tottenham, under new coach Roberto De Zerbi, are ready to rebuild this summer. While they won’t stop Romero from leaving, they are firm that he won’t join Arsenal. If Romero did move to Arsenal, it would remind fans of the famous switch by Sol Campbell in 2001, which caused a lot of controversy. Campbell moved on a free transfer after his Spurs contract ended, but Romero is still contracted until 2029, so Spurs have full control over where he goes.
The last player to move directly between the two clubs was defender William Gallas in 2010, but that was after his Arsenal contract ended. Because of Romero’s ongoing contract, a move to Arsenal seems very unlikely.
Meanwhile, De Zerbi is already planning without Romero. Spurs have signed Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton for £52 million as his replacement and hope to recover some of the money by selling Romero. Atletico Madrid might be the best fit since they have shown long-term interest, and their coach Diego Simeone is a big fan of Romero.
Atletico tried to sign Romero last year but lost out when Spurs convinced him to stay, giving him a new contract and the captain’s armband. Now, Atletico are reportedly ready to offer £40 million and feel confident about making the deal happen, despite interest from Inter Milan as well.