Cristian Romero has become an essential member of Tottenham’s backline, and his replacement will struggle to fill his boots.
Tottenham have been reluctant to part ways with Romero this summer, but the Argentine has his heart set on moving to Atletico Madrid.
The defender joined Spurs from Atalanta in 2022 and has gone on to form one of the Premier League’s best defensive duos alongside Micky van de Ven.
Injuries robbed Tottenham fans of seeing much of them together last season. But it now seems they will have to get used to a whole new partnership.
Tottenham to sign Koni De Winter as Romero replacement
Tottenham have been linked to Belgian centre-back Koni De Winter this summer.
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The defender has never set foot in the Premier League, but that could all change as Spurs look to battle it out for his signature.
As reported by the print edition of Mundo Deportivo (6 July, page 21), Romero has rejected an offer to become Tottenham’s highest-paid player, which has fuelled Atletico’s hopes of signing him.
The Argentina international has expressed an interest in playing in La Liga, and Spurs, aware of this interest, value Romero at £60million. However, the Spanish club are currently willing to offer around 47.5m in addition to variables.
This development has prompted Tottenham to seek his replacement and have already decided on Genoa’s De Winter for an amount that would reach £20.7m.
The 23-year-old impressed in Italy last season and could be a more affordable option for the North London club.
De Winter would be a good investment for Spurs
Tottenham should still sign De Winter this summer if Romero remains in North London.
The versatile defender can operate in multiple positions, including as a full-back on either side, central defender, defensive midfielder and even an offensive central midfielder.
He is a player who can score goals, netting three for Genoa during the 2024/25 season. This could allow Thomas Frank to line up in several different ways next season.
Furthermore, his versatility would make him an important rotational option.
Limited squad depth at Spurs was partly to blame for their catastrophic Premier League season. However, the addition of De Winter would mean Frank has options in the midfield and defence if injuries become a problem.
Therefore, a unique talent like this cannot and should not be ignored by Spurs this summer.