Barcelona emerge as contenders to sign World Cup-winning Premier League defender | OneFootball

As the season progresses and the summer transfer window inches closer, Barcelona’s links to potential targets deepen. At this point, what is known for certain is that the club will eye a new centre-back and centre-forward.

One of the big differences between the team this season and the previous one is the absence of an experienced leader in defence. The void left by Inigo Martinez’s departure, after all, was never filled.

The club, thus, are open to signing a relatively seasoned campaigner, and it now appears that Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero is emerging as an option.

Set to leave in June

According to reports in England, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, the Argentine defender has made his decision to leave Spurs at the end of the season primarily because of severe internal friction.

Months ago, he was linked with a move to Spain – specifically, Atletico Madrid. Now, however, Barcelona are arriving as a serious option on the English media outlets.

Romero on Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

It is, in fact, not the first time that the Catalans have shown interest in Romero, for they were extensively linked with him, particularly back when Lionel Messi was at the club.

So far this season, the 27-year-old has made 19 starts and 20 appearances for Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League and has four goals and an assist to his name – incredible numbers for a defender.

He averages over 14 defensive actions and four ball recoveries per game and has overseen four clean sheets in the process.

It remains to be seen if Barcelona are willing to push their end and make the deal financially feasible, especially given that his contract runs out in 2029.

While it may prove to be a moderately pricey affair, the team could really use his leadership at the back.