Barcelona has designated Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero as its primary defensive target for the upcoming summer transfer window, according to a report by Sport on May 22, 2026.
The Spanish club shifted its focus to the 28-year-old Argentina international after dropping interest in Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni due to high financial costs.
Transfer Fee and Negotiations
Tottenham is currently demanding a transfer fee of at least €60 million for the center-back if the club maintains its Premier League status.
Barcelona believes the player wishes to leave London and hopes this desire, potentially combined with a player exchange, can lower the final price.
The negotiations could be significantly altered by Tottenham's final-day league result against Everton on May 24, 2026, as a relegation to the Championship would weaken the English club's bargaining position.
Romero has recorded the second-most duels won for Tottenham this season with 193 and the third-most interceptions with 38 across 32 appearances.
However, he has also conceded 42 fouls and received two red cards.
Tensions have mounted between Romero and Tottenham as the defender chose to recover from a knee injury in Argentina at the facilities of his former club, Belgrano, rather than remaining in England during the final stretch of the season.
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi addressed the situation ahead of the club's recent fixtures, noting that long-term roster decisions would be deferred until the conclusion of the tournament.
"It is a good question, but it is the wrong timing," said Roberto De Zerbi.
The manager emphasized that immediate on-field performances remained the priority for the squad.
"First of all, now the focus is Chelsea," said De Zerbi.
The coaching staff intends to evaluate individual player commitment before finalizing the squad composition for the next season.
"The second point is that Romero is a great player," said De Zerbi.
He added that contract discussions would take place after the final match against Everton.
"The most important thing is the behaviour and how much the player wants to stay in this club," said De Zerbi.
Management plans to review the situation once the campaign officially concludes.
"We have to take a decision after this season, after the Everton game," said De Zerbi.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has approved the pursuit of Romero because the defender's aggressive style and leadership fit his tactical system, as reported by ESPN.
Barcelona is also keeping track of Roma defender Evan Ndicka and options in the Saudi Pro League as alternatives.
Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid are also monitoring Romero's availability ahead of the opening of the summer transfer market.
