Arsenal and Chelsea are two of Tottenham Hotspur's biggest rivals, but both London teams are being linked with one of Spurs' key players
Arsenal and Chelsea are both interested in Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero, according to reports in Italy. Romero, 28, is expected to depart Roberto De Zerbi's side this summer.
Spurs' transfer activity also suggests he is on his way out, as they have added central defenders Marco Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke to their ranks already. Romero is heavily linked with a move to Inter Milan, where he would reunite with Argentina team-mate Lautaro Martinez.
They can also offer him a significant role at the San Siro as well as Champions League football. However, it's also reported in Italy that both Arsenal and Chelsea are pondering a move for the fiery Argentina star.
FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE!Latest Gunners news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page
Corriere dello Sport claims Mikel Arteta and Xabi Alonso's sides are among the contenders for the ex-Atalanta defender. The Gunners are in the market for a new central defender, with William Saliba set to miss a large portion of the campaign as a result of undergoing back surgery.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are set to announce the signing of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, but are also believed to be looking to sign another centre-half. John Stones, who is a free agent after leaving Manchester City, has also been linked with both clubs.
It would be a fascinating move if either Arsenal or Chelsea wrapped up a move for Romero. It's been claimed by Mundo Deportivo that Spurs are looking for around £25.9m despite, at one point, valuing him at around £60.3m.
Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have also been credited with an interest in Romero this summer. Spurs snubbed an advance from the former last season, after they enquired about his services.
Romero's future at Spurs started looking finite at the end of last season. He was heavily chastised by fans when he flew to Argentina for further medical treatment on a knee injury as the threat of relegation loomed over the club.
It was also reported that he would miss Spurs' win or bust survival clash against Everton, so he could watch his boyhood Argentine side Belgrano face River Plate in the Primera Division final on the same day.
He did opt not to do the latter and was present in north London to see Spurs preserve their Premier League status by beating the Toffees 1-0.
Despite his change of heart, Romero's future at the club still looks set to end this summer, one way or another. Inter sporting director Piero Ausilo also all but confirmed they are interested in signing him.
He told Sky Sports Italy. "It's definitely a deal we are trying to sign with the player and the club (Tottenham). These things take some time but there's definitely interest. Let's see."