Cristian Romero is expected to leave Tottenham Hotspur this summer after informing the club of his desire to move on, with Barcelona emerging as his preferred destination ahead of Inter Milan.
The Argentina international remains one of Tottenham’s most valuable assets and is attracting significant interest following another impressive World Cup campaign. While Inter have held discussions over a possible transfer, the defender is understood to favour a switch to La Liga if he leaves north London.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Inter’s interest resurfaced during recent negotiations with Tottenham over England full-back Djed Spence, when Romero’s situation was also discussed between the clubs. However, despite the Italian champions’ long-standing admiration, Barcelona are believed to be Romero’s first choice.
The 28-year-old has enjoyed an eventful spell since joining Spurs from Atalanta in 2021.
Romero has made 156 appearances for Tottenham, scoring 13 goals, and played a key role in ending the club’s long wait for silverware by helping them lift the UEFA Europa League in 2025. He completed the full 90 minutes in the final victory over Manchester United and has also captained the club during a turbulent period on and off the pitch.
Despite his achievements, Romero’s relationship with sections of the Tottenham support has at times been strained.
Earlier this year he found himself at the centre of controversy after reports claimed he intended to return to Argentina to watch former club Belgrano instead of being available for Tottenham’s decisive final league match. Following criticism from supporters, the defender reversed that decision and remained with the squad as Spurs secured their Premier League survival.
His future has been the subject of speculation for several months.
Atlético Madrid were previously linked with a move, with Diego Simeone reportedly an admirer of his fellow Argentine, but no formal offer has materialised. Barcelona have since emerged as the club most likely to test Tottenham’s resolve, although Spurs are expected to demand a substantial transfer fee given Romero still has three years remaining on his contract.
Injuries limited Romero to 32 appearances in all competitions last season, during which he contributed four goals. Nevertheless, his reputation as one of Europe’s leading central defenders remains intact, underlined by his status as a World Cup winner with Argentina and his continued importance to the national team.
Romero’s immediate focus remains on international duty, with Argentina preparing for their World Cup semi-final against England. Once the tournament concludes, attention is expected to turn quickly to his club future as Barcelona and Inter assess whether they can strike a deal with Tottenham.
