Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move for Juventus centre-back Cristian Romero. Romero was signed by Juve in 2019 but he is yet to play a senior game for the Italian giants as he spent his last two seasons on loan at Genoa and Atalanta.
As per Football.London, Spurs director of football Fabio Paratici is interested in signing Romero once again, whom he signed for the first time when he was at Juventus. The Argentine defender is reportedly a top target for Spurs, while Atalanta could also be interested in signing him on a permanent deal, whom they have on loan until 2022.
The report claims that Atalanta could sign him permanently and then sell him to Spurs for a higher fee. Romero is an Argentinian international, having played five times for the senior team.
Cristian Romero: A solid option at the back?
Cristian Romero was one of the finest performers in Serie A last season, guiding Atalanta to a third-place finish. He was named the best defender of Serie A last season after some stellar performances for Atalanta. Romero is a superb centre-back who has the ability to become a top-tier defender in Europe.
The 23-year-old is a speedy defender, who uses his pace and awareness to make key interceptions. He made an average of 3.1 interceptions per game in Serie A last season, while also averaging 2 tackles per game in the Italian league. Romero has the ability to command the box, winning headers, making tackles and interceptions, and also organising the backline.
He is a strong centre-back who prioritises defensive duties over joining in the attack. Romero is a future star and Spurs will benefit hugely from his signature. Tottenham are not in the best shape defensively as the options at their disposal are either ageing, not in good form, or aren’t good enough for the Premier League. Toby Alderweireld turned 32 earlier this year and it seems that his best is behind him. According to recent reports, Alderweireld has been put on a list of six players who the club won’t mind selling which helps us understand the urgency the Lilywhites have shown in scouting central defenders this window.
Eric Dier’s best position may be as a defensive midfielder and not at centre-back as he hasn’t impressed at the back. Davinson Sanchez came into the club with a lot of promise, but he hasn’t quite delivered on the potential many thought he had. Joe Rodon impressed in his first season, and even did well for Wales in Euro 2020. He could turn into a decent Premier League defender with some games under his belt.
Cristian Romero could partner with one of Rodon, Sanchez or Alderweireld and try to make Spurs stronger defensively. He has the experience, leadership, and the talent to be a key figure at the back for the North London club.