Race to sign Tottenham defender Cristian Romero has taken a shock twist | OneFootball

Cristian Romero’s expected Tottenham exit has taken another twist, with Barcelona reportedly considering a late attempt to beat Atlético Madrid to the Argentina international. Romero looks increasingly likely to leave north London this summer despite having three years remaining on his contract.

Atlético have been leading the race and have already made significant progress, but Barcelona’s emergence could complicate what had appeared to be a relatively straightforward move to Diego Simeone’s side.

For Barcelona, the attraction is obvious. Romero is experienced at the highest level, aggressive without the ball and comfortable defending in space, qualities that could make him an immediate option in their back line.

Barcelona making late push for Tottenham defender

According to TEAMtalk, Barcelona have emerged as genuine contenders for Romero despite Atlético being close to reaching an agreement with Tottenham.

The report says Barcelona have been in discussions with the defender’s camp as they explore the possibility of hijacking the deal.

Atlético remain firmly in pole position. Personal terms with Romero have already been agreed, while negotiations with Tottenham over the transfer fee are progressing.

TEAMtalk also reports that Simeone is pushing strongly to complete the signing before Barcelona can make a decisive move.

The Guardian similarly reports that Atlético are prepared to match the roughly £35 million bid previously made by Inter Milan and are Romero’s preferred destination.

Atletico Madrid could be forced to move quickly

From Tottenham’s perspective, another serious bidder is good news.

Romero wants to leave, so Spurs’ priority should be securing the strongest possible deal rather than allowing Atlético to negotiate without meaningful competition.

Barcelona entering the race could strengthen Tottenham’s position and potentially push the final fee higher.

For Romero, Atlético still feels like the most natural fit. Simeone values aggressive, front-foot defenders, and the Argentine’s intensity appears tailor-made for his approach.

Barcelona, however, would offer a different attraction. If they can create the financial and squad space required, they could offer Romero another elite La Liga destination and potentially change his plans at the last moment.

TEAMtalk notes that several Barcelona departures could help create room for a serious bid.

The key issue is timing. Atlético have already done much of the groundwork, while Barcelona are arriving late.

Unless the Catalan club move quickly with a concrete offer, Romero still looks more likely to join Atlético. But their interest has given Tottenham something valuable: leverage in the final stage of negotiations.