Tottenham leave door open for defender’s exit as Barcelona monitor situation | OneFootball

Cristian Romero remains one of the most closely watched defenders on the transfer market, with his future at Tottenham increasingly uncertain.

According to SPORT, Barcelona continue to monitor the Argentine international’s situation, although any move for the centre-back would still depend on departures in Hansi Flick’s defensive unit before the club can make a formal approach.

Meanwhile, comments from Tottenham manager Francesco De Zerbi have fuelled speculation that Romero’s time in North London may be coming to an end.

De Zerbi open to Romero exit

Speaking about Romero’s future, De Zerbi praised the defender’s professionalism and commitment throughout his time under the Italian coach.

“Romero was incredible with me. Top level. His behaviour and his respect were outstanding,” De Zerbi said.

De Zerbi open to Romero departure. (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images)

He also dismissed reports suggesting the World Cup winner had wanted to leave Tottenham’s training camp early to prepare for international duty.

“That isn’t true. He never wanted to leave for Argentina early to prepare for the World Cup.”

However, his most revealing comments came when discussing Romero’s future.

“After the semi-final against England we exchanged a few messages, but I never called him to convince him to stay. I respected what he told me.”

Those remarks have been widely interpreted as confirmation that Tottenham are prepared to let Romero leave if the right opportunity arises rather than trying to persuade him to remain at the club.

Barcelona continue to monitor

Barcelona remain attentive to developments. Sporting director Deco continues to regard Romero as one of the club’s preferred options to strengthen central defence.

Barcelona keeping an eye on Romero. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

But any move remains dependent on outgoing transfers creating both squad space and salary flexibility.

For now, the Catalan club is maintaining contact while waiting to see whether movement in its own defence opens the door to negotiations.

Competition for his signature

Barcelona are not the only club interested in the 27-year-old.

Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan have also been linked with Romero in recent weeks, setting up what could become a competitive race should Tottenham formally place the defender on the market.

For the moment, no destination has been decided, but De Zerbi’s public comments have reinforced the growing belief that Romero’s spell in North London could soon come to an end.