Shock move, Cuti Romero eyed by a European giant after the World Cup | OneFootball

FC Barcelona included Cristian “Cuti” Romero on its list of possible reinforcements for the 2026/27 season. The center-back from Córdoba, who came through Belgrano, appears as the top alternative if the Catalan club fails to complete the signing of Italian defender Alessandro Bastoni.

Interest in the Argentina national team defender comes at a key moment in his career in Europe. After his time in the Italian league, the center-back established himself as one of the standout players in the English league before entering the Spanish club’s plans.

Relegation and release clause

The possibility of Romero moving to Spain gained momentum due to the difficult situation Tottenham are going through in the Premier League. The London side are currently fighting to avoid relegation with only four matches left before the end of the tournament.

The former Belgrano player has a specific clause allowing him to terminate his contract if the club is relegated. This scenario would make his departure more financially accessible for the Catalan club’s board.

The center-back from Córdoba has been with the London club since August 2022. During this period, Romero became a key pillar of the starting eleven, making 156 official appearances and scoring 13 goals.

Injury and Messi’s memory

At present, the 28-year-old defender is recovering from an injury to his right knee. Although reports indicate that he will be fit for the next World Cup, he will likely arrive with little match fitness beforehand.

This is not the first time the Córdoba native’s name has been heard in the halls of Camp Nou. In 2021, it was Lionel Messi himself who recommended him as a signing while the captain was still negotiating his future at the club.

“The fact that Messi thinks of me as a teammate and wanted to take me to Barcelona is incredible,” the defender admitted some time later. At that time, Romero was still playing for Atalanta in Italy before his move to England.

Career path and future in Europe

“Cuti” has vast international experience after wearing the shirts of Genoa, Juventus, and Atalanta. His consistency in top-level leagues has also kept him on the radar of other giants, such as Real Madrid.

Barcelona’s board, whose sporting priority is the search for a left-footed center-back like Bastoni, keeps Romero as its high-level “Plan B.” The versatility and character of the Córdoba native are highly valued by the Blaugrana coaching staff.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.