Atletico Madrid intensifies pursuit of Tottenham captain Cristian Romero

Atletico Madrid are reportedly in talks to sign Tottenham captain Cristian Romero, the 28-year-old Argentine who signed a four-year extension with the London club last August. The move comes as Romero is expected to exit Spurs this summer, with Inter Milan also linked to the defender. Diego Simeone has long coveted the centre-back and his side is believed to be advancing a fresh attempt to secure his services.

Tottenham boss Roberto de Zerbi has indicated the club will respect a player’s wish to depart, and Romero’s personal terms are not expected to be a barrier. Romero missed the end of the previous season due to a knee injury and received two red cards as Spurs finished 17th. In contrast, fellow defender Micky van de Ven is nearing a new five-year contract with Tottenham.