Tottenham Hotspur could be forced into the transfer market for a new centre-back this summer, especially if Cristian Romero decides to move on. With reports suggesting he is stalling on a new contract, Spurs might need to act fast to secure a replacement. Here are five potential options.
Tottenham Hotspur are bracing themselves for a crucial summer transfer window, particularly in the defensive department.
Cristian Romero’s future at Tottenham remains uncertain, with reports indicating that he has yet to commit to a new deal.
The Argentine centre-back is said to be eyeing Champions League football next season, a factor that could influence his decision to leave.
Spurs, however, are keen to keep hold of their defensive stalwart, and Tottenham have reportedly tabled a lucrative contract offer to persuade Romero to stay.
But with negotiations dragging on, other clubs have started circling. Atletico Madrid have expressed their interest in Romero, reportedly making contact with his representatives as they look to bolster their backline.
If the worst comes to pass and Romero departs, Tottenham will need to act swiftly in the market. A high-calibre replacement would be required to maintain their defensive solidity. Here are five centre-backs who could be ideal candidates for the role.
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Marc Guehi: Premier League proven option for Spurs
Marc Guehi is an obvious candidate to replace Cristian Romero and was already on Tottenham’s radar during the winter transfer window.
Spurs made a £65m approach for Marc Guehi, but their bid was turned down as Palace felt there wasn’t enough time to find a replacement.
With 125 Premier League appearances under his belt and 31 clean sheets to his name, Guehi offers proven top-flight experience.
Jarrad Branthwaite: A long-term investment for Tottenham
Jarrad Branthwaite is another option Spurs have been linked with extensively ahead of the summer. At just 22, the Everton defender represents a long-term investment, but signing him won’t be straightforward.
Manchester United, Manchester City, and even Real Madrid are all reportedly interested in Branthwaite, which could drive up his price significantly.
Another concern is his injury record. Branthwaite has already missed 146 days of action due to a groin problem. Pairing him with Micky van de Ven, another injury-prone defender, could be a gamble.
However, if Tottenham can secure him, they’d be getting a player with immense potential who could be a defensive mainstay for years to come.
Edmond Tapsoba: A cost-effective alternative
Edmond Tapsoba remains a viable option for Spurs, particularly given his reported availability for around £46 million.
The Bayer Leverkusen centre-back was previously on Tottenham’s radar before they opted for Micky van de Ven two summers ago. Should Romero leave, Tottenham could reignite their interest in Tapsoba.
However, recent reports suggest that he is unlikely to move, with his teammates Jonathan Tah and Piero Hincapie more likely to be sold by Leverkusen. If he does become available, though, Spurs should strongly consider making a move.
Piero Hincapie: A versatile defensive asset
That brings us to Hincapie, who is one of three Leverkusen defenders rumoured to be available this summer.
The Ecuadorian is an intriguing option, primarily due to his versatility. He can operate as a centre-back or slot in as an inverted full-back—a role Pep Guardiola often deploys Manuel Akanji and John Stones in at Manchester City.
Tottenham rarely set up that way under Ange Postecoglou, but if they were to secure Hincapie, it could give them tactical flexibility. His ability to transition between roles could add a new dimension to Spurs’ defensive structure.
Ilya Zabarnyi: The perfect tactical fit for Tottenham
Ilya Zabarnyi is my preferred option to replace Romero. The reason is simple: Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth side play a very similar brand of football to Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham.
If Postecoglou remains in charge next season, Zabarnyi would slot into the system seamlessly, making for a smooth transition.
On the other hand, if Spurs were to move on from Postecoglou and appoint Iraola, Zabarnyi would still be an ideal fit. He knows the manager’s tactics well, meaning the transition period would be minimal. Either way, securing the Ukrainian could be a smart move for Tottenham.
Honourable mention: Jonathan Tah
One name worth mentioning is Jonathan Tah, who could be a smart free-agent signing. Bringing him in would save Tottenham money that could be spent elsewhere.
Tah, a centre-back with experience at the highest level, fits the bill perfectly. Like Romero, he knows what it takes to win trophies.
The Leverkusen man played a crucial role in Xabi Alonso’s side last season when they came close to securing a historic treble, eventually lifting both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal.