Atletico Madrid are reportedly intensifying their interest in Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Cristian Romero and are prepared to sweeten the deal by offering a player in exchange as they look to push through a summer transfer.
With head coach Diego Simeone determined to add steel and leadership to his defensive unit, Romero has emerged as a top target for the La Liga club. The Argentine international’s combative style, tactical intelligence, and experience in both European and international football make him a highly appealing option for Atletico as they prepare for a key rebuilding phase.
Although discussions have begun behind the scenes between the two clubs, early negotiations have highlighted a substantial difference in valuation. Tottenham are standing firm, with chairman Daniel Levy unlikely to entertain any offer that doesn’t meet his high expectations. Levy, known across Europe for his hardline stance in transfer dealings, is unlikely to let one of his prized assets leave on the cheap.
To break the deadlock, Atletico Madrid are now considering including 25-year-old winger Rodrigo Riquelme as part of the package, according to Marca (via Sport Witness). The Spanish wide man, who had a brief loan stint with Bournemouth in the Premier League, has struggled for regular game time at Atletico and could now be used as a bargaining chip to facilitate the deal.
Riquelme’s inclusion could help reduce the financial burden on Atletico while offering Tottenham a new attacking option as they look to bolster their front line ahead of the new season. Spurs are believed to be in the market for more attacking reinforcements, particularly players who can add creativity and width — qualities Riquelme could provide if given a fresh opportunity in North London.
Interestingly, Atletico had previously rejected interest in Riquelme from both Aston Villa and Villarreal in January. But with the stakes higher now and a key target like Romero in sight, they appear more willing to part ways with the Spanish international if it increases their chances of sealing the deal.
Despite the potential appeal of a swap deal involving Riquelme, Tottenham are said to have their eyes on other targets as well — namely Conor Gallagher. The Chelsea midfielder, who has reportedly impressed Spurs’ recruitment team, is viewed as a more high-profile addition. However, reports suggest Gallagher is content in his current environment in Spain and is not pushing for a move, making any potential deal difficult.
Meanwhile, Romero isn’t the only player who could be on the move from Tottenham this summer. Right-back Pedro Porro is also generating interest, with Manchester City reportedly considering a move for the Spanish international. Porro’s attacking prowess and familiarity with the Premier League have made him a player to watch, particularly for clubs seeking a dynamic option on the flank.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Tottenham face the challenge of holding onto key players while also reshaping the squad to align with Ange Postecoglou’s vision. Whether Romero ends up in Madrid or remains in North London may depend on how far Atletico are willing to go — and whether their offer, including Riquelme or others, is enough to satisfy one of the Premier League’s shrewdest negotiators.
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