“The time is right to make a change”: Tottenham told to get rid of key star and sign 24-year-old

Tottenham Hotspur could be forced to make a significant defensive decision this summer, with speculation swirling around the future of Argentine centre-back Cristian Romero. The 27-year-old has been a key figure at the heart of Spurs’ backline since joining the club, but questions over his fitness and consistency have sparked debate about whether it might be time for a change. Football commentator Ian Darke has now weighed in, suggesting that Spurs should look to Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi as a potential replacement.

Speaking to Tottenham News, Darke did not hold back in his assessment of Romero’s recent performances. “Romero has been patchy. He’s been injured a lot of the time, and I think the time is right to make a change,” he said. Darke went on to endorse Guehi as an ideal candidate to bolster Tottenham’s defence, praising the 24-year-old’s maturity, reliability, and long-term potential. “I think whoever signs Guehi, if he’s sold by Palace, would be making a superb signing. He’s an ultra-solid, good defender and will probably be a fixture in England’s national team for years to come.”

Romero, while undeniably talented, has endured a stop-start season due to multiple injury setbacks. His form has also fluctuated, which has raised concerns among fans and pundits alike. Despite those issues, the Argentine remains a top-tier defender when fully fit. His standout display in the UEFA Europa League final, where he earned man-of-the-match honors and helped his team clinch Champions League qualification, is a testament to the level he can reach when firing on all cylinders.

However, replacing a player of Romero’s calibre is no small task. The Argentine has not only proven himself in the Premier League but has also played a crucial role for his national team. His leadership, aggression, and reading of the game make him a cornerstone of Ange Postecoglou’s defensive plans. It’s also worth noting that Postecoglou is reportedly keen to keep Romero at the club, viewing him as a vital part of the team’s future ambitions.

While Marc Guehi is an undeniably talented prospect who has impressed with his calmness on the ball and composure under pressure, he may still have some way to go before matching Romero’s experience on the biggest stages. That said, with Guehi’s stock rising and his performances catching the eye of several top clubs, he could be a wise long-term investment for Spurs — especially if Romero’s injury woes persist.

Interest in Romero is not expected to be limited if Tottenham signal any openness to a sale. Recent reports have linked him with a move to La Liga giants Atletico Madrid, and other European heavyweights are likely to monitor his situation closely.

Ultimately, Tottenham are facing a tricky balancing act. Do they stick with Romero and trust in his quality despite the risk of further injuries, or do they cash in and bring in a younger, less injury-prone alternative like Guehi? Whichever path they choose, it could have a significant impact on their defensive stability in the seasons ahead.