Manchester United has initiated a move for Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero, offering the Argentine international an attractive contract to lead their defense next season.
According to reports from Fichajes and TEAMtalk, Tottenham is prepared to sell the 28-year-old center-back for a transfer fee estimated at €65 million (£56 million).
Internal Decision Made in January
The decision to part ways with the defender was internally finalized as early as January, following a breakdown in relations and a perceived shift in the player's attitude during Tottenham's recent Premier League relegation battle.
Tensions escalated when Romero, despite being injured, initially flew to Argentina to watch his boyhood club Belgrano play River Plate before Tottenham's final match of the season.
Internal pressure forced him to return to England to support his teammates.
Spurs insider Graeme Bailey reported that Tottenham executives have soured on the captain and are actively preparing for his departure by finalizing the signing of free agent Marcos Senesi and bidding for Brighton's Jan Paul van Hecke.
The potential move to Old Trafford appeals to Romero, who seeks a more competitive project following Tottenham's recent struggles under manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Manchester United, currently progressing under manager Michael Carrick, can offer Champions League soccer and views the World Cup winner as the ideal long-term solution for a backline hindered by Harry Maguire's aging career and Lisandro Martinez's injury struggles.
While Spanish clubs Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have previously shown interest, Manchester United remains the front-runner to complete the signing swiftly as part of their preseason planning.
Defensive reorganization is already underway at Tottenham, with the club exploring European markets for solutions as Romero's high-profile departure gathers momentum.
Speaking on the defensive transition, Bailey provided context regarding the North London club's willingness to negotiate.
"Intermediaries have already begun exploring solutions and gauging interest across Europe as the possibility of a high-profile departure gathers momentum," Bailey revealed.
The transfer fee represents Romero's established quality in the Premier League despite his disciplinary record of 40 yellow cards and four red cards during his top-flight career.
The acquisition would secure Manchester United an aggressive, commanding presence to reinforce their squad ahead of the upcoming European campaign.
