Sports Mole

Inter Milan have reportedly set a 10-day deadline to complete a deal for Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Cristian Romero.

The Argentina international is yet to return to Spurs for pre-season following his run to the World Cup final, but he may have already played his last match for the Lilywhites.

Romero has been tipped to return to Serie A for a number of months now, and Inter have been leading the race to bring the former Juventus and Atalanta BC man back to Italy's top flight.

In recent days, Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked with a shock move for Romero, but a switch across London is not expected to materialise in the coming weeks.

Instead, Inter are keen to sign the defender on a permanent deal during the current window - according to FCInterNews - rather than negotiating a loan with a conditional obligation in 2027.

Inter Milan 'set 10-day deadline' for Cristian Romero deal

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The Nerazzurri are said to be optimistic of closing a deal, as contrary to previous reports, Spurs are not demanding as much as €50m (£42.7m) to sanction his exit.

Instead, Inter's desired fee of €40m (£34.2m) could be enough to twist Tottenham's arm, but the Serie A giants want the saga to end within the next 10 days.

Even if Spurs and Inter cannot reach an agreement inside the next 10 days, the Nerazzurri will move on to other targets, such is their desire to bolster their defence quickly.

Romero is under contract at Tottenham until the summer of 2029, but Spurs will not stand in his way of an exit for the right price, given their apparent mutual agreement that a separation is the best move for all parties.

Inter have already signed Manuel Akanji on a permanent deal from Manchester City, but Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij have both departed on free transfers.

What will Cristian Romero's Tottenham legacy be?

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Loved and hated in equal measure during his time at Tottenham, Romero has perpetually divided opinion among the Spurs fanbase, although he is in more bad books than good books right now.

The 28-year-old hit the headlines for the wrong reasons when he flew back to Argentina before Tottenham's final-day game against Everton last season; the game that Spurs won to secure Premier League survival.

Romero got back in time to watch the match, but the damage had already been done in the eyes of many Tottenham supporters, who have also witnessed the South American receive six red cards in his Spurs career; more than any other Premier League player since his debut.

At his best, Romero is a tough-tackling, aggressive defender with a penchant for goals and assists, as he came up with crucial efforts in 2-2 draws with Burnley and Newcastle United last season, while also captaining the club to Europa League glory the year before.

However, the Argentine's long-standing disciplinary issues and pre-Everton controversy means that many Tottenham fans would gladly see the back of him.

Arsenal and Chelsea are reportedly considering a shock move for Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero.

Romero has been heavily linked with a move away from Spurs after they narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League last season.

It has been widely reported that the Argentina centre-back is expected to leave the club this summer, with Inter Milan and Barcelona among those credited with an interest.

Reports also emerged last month suggesting that Manchester United were interested in Romero, although the Red Devils appear to have distanced themselves from a potential move.

While Man Utd may no longer be in the running, other Premier League heavyweights could yet enter the race, with Arsenal and Chelsea now linked with the Tottenham defender.

Arsenal and Chelsea eye move for Cristian Romero?

© Imago / APL

According to Corriere dello Sport, Romero has emerged as Inter Milan's top defensive target for the summer transfer window.

The 28-year-old is reportedly open to returning to Italy four years after leaving Atalanta, although Inter would need to meet an asking price of around €50m (£42m) to secure his signature.

The report claims that the Nerazzurri are likely to face strong competition from Arsenal and Chelsea for Romero, whose contract at Tottenham runs until 2029.

Inter are reportedly exploring a loan deal containing an obligation to buy, similar to the structure they previously used to sign Manuel Akanji from Manchester City.

Cristian Romero unlikely to join Arsenal or Chelsea

© Imago / PHOTOxPHOTO

Tottenham have already strengthened their defensive ranks with the additions of Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi, potentially giving them greater freedom to sanction Romero's departure if their valuation is met.

Arsenal could be in the market for another centre-back, particularly with William Saliba set to miss the start of the season due to a back problem.

However, Tottenham are highly unlikely to entertain the prospect of selling Romero to their bitter north London rivals, while Chelsea are already closing in on a deal for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix.

As a result, despite interest from two of Spurs' London rivals, a return to Serie A with Inter currently appears a more realistic route for Romero should he leave Tottenham this summer.

Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi has revealed that his next priority for the summer transfer window is to "complete the attacking positions".

Despite Spurs only retaining their Premier League status on the final day of 2025-26, they have embarked on an unprecedented spending spree during the early part of the summer market.

Even with three additions arriving on free transfers, Spurs have still spent over £235m on the likes of Jan Paul van Hecke, Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.

However, De Zerbi is yet to acquire a fresh face for the final third, despite uncertainty over a number of his squad.

Speaking at a press conference in New Zealand, the Italian has acknowledged that he is now focused on strengthening that area of the pitch.

© Iconsport / Sport Press Photo. /Alamy Live News

De Zerbi to target new attackers for Spurs

De Zerbi told reporters: "Yes, the target now is to complete the attacking positions.

"We want the first target, the first level, because we have already important players.

"But I think to start a new project we need another couple of important players for sure."

© Iconsport / Pressinphoto

How do Spurs look in the final third?

Spurs have two centre-forwards - Richarlison and Dane Scarlett - whose contracts have just 12 months left to run.

With the possibility of those players being sold and Randal Kolo Muani having returned to parent club Paris Saint-Germain, it is clear that at least one new striker will arrive at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Mathys Tel, Mohammed Kudus and Dominic Solanke are all options down the middle of the attack, yet the former two of that trio could be used elsewhere.

Tottenham Hotspur will travel to Eden Park to face Auckland FC on Sunday in their second pre-season friendly ahead of the 2026-27 Premier League season.

Spurs got their preparations underway with a 1-0 win against MK Dons earlier this week, and Roberto De Zerbi's side will now travel to Auckland and Sydney for their next two friendly fixtures.

A 35-man squad has been announced to travel to Auckland for Sunday's friendly, with several summer signings included, while there are also numerous notable absences.

De Zerbi will be without Mohammed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Dejan Kulusevski, Wilson Odobert and Guglielmo Vicario as they continue their respective rehabilitation in England.

Tottenham will also be without several players due to their involvement at the World Cup, with Pedro Porro, Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Matar Sarr, Marcos Senesi, Cristian Romero and Djed Spence all given extended holiday.

Spurs have been reinforced with several signings already this summer, and Andy Robertson, Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, Jan Paul van Hecke and Martin Dubravka could all be involved throughout the 90 minutes.

Numerous players from the 1-0 win against MK Dons earlier this week may also retain their spots in the starting 11, with Antonin Kinsky, Archie Gray, Ben Davies, Conor Gallagher, Mathys Tel and Dominic Solanke all in contention to start.

Tottenham Hotspur possible starting lineup:

Kinsky; Gray, Van Hecke, Davies, Robertson; Fernandes, Tonali; Yang, Gallagher, Tel; Solanke

Auckland FC and Tottenham Hotspur will come together at Eden Park for a pre-season friendly fixture on Sunday.

The hosts will be playing their first match since the conclusion of their 2025-26 campaign, while the visitors got their pre-season preparations underway with a 1-0 win against MK Dons.

Match preview

Auckland FC were established in March 2024 and played their first official A-League fixture in October 2024, winning 2-0 against Brisbane Roar.

That victory set the tone for Auckland's debut campaign, with the Black Knights finishing top of the A-League table with 53 points from 26 games, after 15 wins, eight draws and only three defeats.

Auckland were unable to subsequently secure the A-League Championship during the play-offs, losing 2-1 in the semi-finals to Melbourne Victory.

The Black Knights were unable to retain their title the following season, finishing third in the standings, but Steve Corica's side did go on to triumph in the play-offs, lifting their first A-League Championship title.

Auckland defeated Melbourne City on penalties and beat Adelaide United 4-1 in the semi-finals before narrowly winning 1-0 against Sydney FC in the final to secure the trophy.

Corica will be hoping to oversee another successful campaign in 2026-27, and their preparations will begin on Sunday when they welcome Premier League opponents Tottenham Hotspur.

© Iconsport / PA Images

While Auckland still have nearly three months before their A-League campaign gets underway, Spurs' pre-season is in full swing with the start of the Premier League season less than a month away.

Tottenham got their first pre-season under Roberto De Zerbi's management underway with a 1-0 victory against MK Dons on Wednesday, with summer signing Mateus Fernandes scoring a stunning volley after just three minutes.

De Zerbi will now take a 35-man squad to Auckland and Sydney as their pre-season preparations continue, with the Italian hoping to lead Tottenham to a significantly stronger campaign after back-to-back 17th-placed finishes in the Premier League.

Spurs will be hoping that their numerous summer signings can ease into the squad during their pre-season, with Fernandes, Sandro Tonali, Andy Robertson, Jan Paul van Hecke and Martin Dubravaka all among the travelling squad.

Auckland FC form (all competitions):

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Tottenham Hotspur Club Friendlies 1 form:

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Team News

© Iconsport / Harvey Murphy/News Images

Corica could opt to name a strong starting 11 for Auckland's pre-season clash with Tottenham Hotspur, meaning a similar side to the one that emerged victorious in the play-off final against Sydney could feature.

However, the Auckland boss is likely to name numerous changes throughout the 90 minutes, with fringe and youth players all expected to feature.

Meanwhile, Spurs will be without several players due to injury and involvement at the World Cup, including the likes of Pedro Porro, Djed Spence, Marcos Senesi and Mohamed Kudus.

Summer signings Robertson, Fernandes, Tonali and Van Hecke could all start, while the likes of Dominic Solanke and Conor Gallagher could keep their spots in the team from the win against MK Dons.

Auckland FC possible starting lineup:

Woud; Sakai, Vicelich, Carey, Pijnaker, Elliot; Howieson, Bayliss, Gallegos; Brook, Cosgrove

Tottenham Hotspur possible starting lineup:

Kinsky; Gray, Van Hecke, Davies, Robertson; Fernandes, Tonali; Yang, Gallagher, Tel; Solanke

We say: Auckland FC 0-3 Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur are undoubtedly the stronger team on paper, and while several youth and fringe players are likely to feature, Spurs should still have enough to secure a comfortable victory.

Tottenham Hotspur have been dealt another injury blow ahead of their pre-season tour of Australia and New Zealand, which Guglielmo Vicario will not be a part of.

Roberto De Zerbi's men have boarded their flight for the other side of the world after opening their pre-season with a 1-0 victory over MK Dons at the Hotspur Way Training Centre on Wednesday.

A sensational Mateus Fernandes volley propelled Tottenham over the line against their League One counterparts, and next up is a showdown with Auckland on July 26.

Spurs will also take on Sydney and Chelsea in the Sydney Super Cup over the next two weeks, and De Zerbi has selected a 35-man group to work with Down Under, but Vicario is among a few notable absentees.

Tottenham have said that the Italy international sustained a 'minor knock' in training and has been left behind to recover, alongside fellow injury victims Wilson Odobert, Dejan Kulusevski, Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons.

Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Sarr, Djed Spence, Marcos Senesi, Pedro Porro and Cristian Romero have also been granted extended leave following their World Cup commitments over the summer.

Guglielmo Vicario's Tottenham future update after pre-season decision

© Iconsport / Fred Dides / Icon Sport

News of Vicario's 'minor injury' comes at a time when the Italy international is 'fully expected' to leave the Lilywhites before the summer transfer window slams shut, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The validity of Vicario's supposed knock has therefore been inevitably questioned by supporters, who will wonder whether he has simply been left out to explore a transfer away from the club.

However, in 2023, Tottenham confirmed that Hugo Lloris had been left out of their pre-season tour squad to explore a prospective move elsewhere, but the Lilywhites have issued no such statement over Vicario.

The latter's injury may therefore be genuine, but regardless, he has almost certainly played his final game for Tottenham ahead of an anticipated return to Serie A.

Which players are in Tottenham's pre-season squad?

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Intriguingly, even though Bentancur (group stage) and Sarr (last 32) were eliminated from the World Cup relatively early, both will play no part in Tottenham's pre-season tour.

However, Jan Paul van Hecke - who reached the knockouts with the Netherlands - and Andy Robertson, who exited the group stage with Scotland, have both made the journey.

Lucas Bergvall is also present amid widespread transfer speculation, as are Richarlison and Micky van de Ven, suggesting that their futures also lie in North London - in the short-term at least.

New signings Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali are also present, as are youngsters Mikey Moore, Luca Williams-Barnett and Malachi Hardy to name but a few.

Before jetting off on their customary pre-season tour on the other side of the world, Tottenham Hotspur's preparations for the 2026-27 campaign commenced behind closed doors against MK Dons on Wednesday.

Roberto De Zerbi's XI certainly had an experimental feel to it, as the Lilywhites' starting side comprised new signings, Premier League regulars, up-and-coming talents and wantaway names in equal measure.

Only the one goal could separate Tottenham and their League One counterparts at Hotspur Way, but it went the way of De Zerbi's men, who edged out MK Dons 1-0 to make an ideal - if unspectacular - start to pre-season.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up who has impressed for Tottenham in pre-season and what we have learned from their feats so far.

Tottenham pre-season report: Mateus Fernandes sends tongues wagging

© Iconsport / PA Images/Nano Banana

Tottenham's slender success over MK Dons was sealed inside the first three minutes, thanks to a wonder strike from one of De Zerbi's new big-money arrivals, as Mateus Fernandes gave Spurs fans a glimpse of what might be to come.

With just three minutes on the board, the £85m lynchpin crashed home a long-range volley with exquisite execution; the type of finish that would be deemed goal-of-the-season worthy in the Premier League.

Fernandes made no standout contributions other than that and also failed to win any of his three ground duels, but the Portuguese kept things ticking over in the engine room, registering an 89% pass success rate during his 45 minutes on the field.

The former West Ham United man may never score a better goal in his entire career, let alone his Spurs stint, but it is impossible not to feel overwhelming excitement now that he has shown what he is capable of.

Tottenham pre-season report: Malachi Hardy makes his mark

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To say it has been a summer of change in the Tottenham backline would be a gross understatement, but a new teenage talent has sent a strong message to De Zerbi ahead of the new campaign getting underway.

Born just two weeks after Tottenham won their last domestic trophy - the 2008 EFL Cup - Malachi Hardy replaced Archie Gray for the second half at Hotspur Way and produced a near-flawless defensive display to help Spurs see out the victory.

The 18-year-old registered five defensive contributions in total, won three of his four duels and showed a willingness to progress play forward, be it with his brave passing or driving runs.

Hardy is yet to make his competitive senior debut for Tottenham, and he already has eight centre-backs ahead of him in the pecking order, so the time may be nigh for a loan move if he also catches the eye during Tottenham's pre-season tour.

Tottenham pre-season report: Moore to come from Luca

© Imago / Action Plus

Hardy was among 11 Tottenham players sent on for the second half against MK Dons, a list that also included Mikey Moore and Luca Jamie Williams-Barnett, two other highly-rated Hotspur Way prospects.

Back from a productive season-long loan spell with Rangers, Moore returned to Tottenham duties with the same hunger and vigour, firing two shots and completing one successful take-on in a proactive performance.

Alongside him, playmaker Williams-Barnett - named as one of the Premier League's top 20 Next Gen talents in 2025 - operated in a less advanced midfield role than expected, but it did not diminish the 17-year-old's impact.

Williams-Barnett registered three key passes on the afternoon - including one big chance created for Yang Min-hyeok - and both he and Moore have staked their claim for first-team roles in the new campaign.

An interesting Premier League return could be on the cards, with Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur all reportedly keeping tabs on Christian Pulisic.

According to American outlet Hooligan Soccer, Christian Pulisic could make a return to the Premier League after several years away. Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are all said to be interested in the former Chelsea forward, while AC Milan are prepared to discuss a sale if any of the suitors offer around £55m.

Pulisic enjoying a strong spell in Italy

Since joining AC Milan, Christian Pulisic has established himself as one of the club's most eye-catching attacking players.

Last season, he was involved in 14 goals and once again showed he can be a difference-maker in the biggest matches. Alongside his output, he also brings experience at the highest level of European football and the ability to play across several attacking positions.

It is precisely that versatility that has made him an attractive target for a number of Premier League clubs.

Pulisic is under contract with AC Milan until the summer of 2027. However, the Italian club's hierarchy do not want to risk a situation in which he enters the final 12 months of his deal next year and sees his market value fall sharply as a result.

According to foreign media reports, AC Milan are therefore prepared to consider selling him this summer if a suitor meets their £55m asking price.

It remains unclear whether any club will be willing to pay that fee.

Why do Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur want Pulisic?

Arsenal are looking for an attacking player capable of playing in multiple positions and boosting competition out wide. Pulisic's experience and output fit exactly the profile of a player who could help the team straight away.

Manchester United also want to add further attacking options. Following changes to the squad over the summer, the club are looking for creative players capable of deciding matches, and the American international represents a proven option with plenty of Premier League experience.

Tottenham Hotspur, meanwhile, need greater quality against sides who defend in a deep block. Pulisic's technique, ability to beat opponents and knack for creating chances could be exactly what Spurs lack in matches of that kind.

Pulisic already knows the Premier League environment very well. He spent several seasons at Chelsea, where in 2021 he was part of the squad that won the Champions League.

Although his time at Stamford Bridge was also hampered by injuries, he repeatedly showed that, when fully fit, he ranks among the competition's most dangerous attacking players.

A return to England could therefore represent an attractive next step in his career.

There is no shortage of clubs interested in Christian Pulisic, but the key question remains whether any of them will meet AC Milan's financial demands.

A fee of £55m is not insignificant, though it does reflect the current market for quality attacking players. If a Premier League club decides the American international is worth that investment, Pulisic could be back on English pitches within two years of leaving the competition.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing Benfica attacker Andreas Schjelderup during the summer transfer window.

The 22-year-old joined Benfica from Nordsjaelland in January 2023 and has since made 86 appearances in all competitions, scoring 15 goals.

Spurs have been highly active in the transfer market, and the squad is beginning to take shape under Roberto De Zerbi, who guided the club to Premier League safety on the final day of last season.

The North London outfit have already completed six signings, including high-profile arrivals Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes and Jan Paul van Hecke.

However, De Zerbi is still keen to strengthen his attacking options in the wide areas, with Schjelderup reportedly emerging as one of his leading targets.

Tottenham eye move for Andreas Schjelderup?

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According to a report from Correio da Manha (h/t Sport Witness), Spurs have recently made contact with Benfica to enquire about the conditions of a potential deal.

The Norway international enhanced his reputation at the World Cup, contributing one goal and three assists, and his impressive displays have only increased interest in his services.

Benfica are understood to value the exciting winger at around €50m (£43m), although Schjelderup is reportedly keen to move on this summer.

New Benfica head coach Marco Silva is said to be trying to persuade Schjelderup to stay and has already held personal talks with the left winger.

Benfica looking at potential replacements?

© Imago / ZUMA Press Wire

Benfica reportedly fear that Tottenham, or another interested club, could meet their asking price and lure the winger away this summer.

Spurs could reportedly face competition from Chelsea, who could considering the Norwegian as a potential replacement for Aston Villa-bound Alejandro Garnacho.

Silva is therefore eager to add another left-sided winger despite Benfica's signing of Jakub Kaminski, with Reiss Nelson emerging as a potential target.

Nelson spent last season on loan at Fulham under Silva, and while a reunion could be on the cards, the Cottagers are also keen to bring him back.

Tottenham Hotspur opened their preparations for the 2026-27 campaign with a 1-0 victory over League One outfit MK Dons on Wednesday evening.

The only goal of the match came from new signing Mateus Fernandes, with the midfielder scoring a stunning volley in the first half of the contest.

Sandro Tonali also made his debut for Spurs alongside Fernandes in the middle of the midfield, and it proved to be a winning start to pre-season for Roberto De Zerbi's side.

SPORTS MOLE'S VERDICT

Well, a win is a win. Even in pre-season.

This was not a particularly pretty match for long stages, but rarely is that the case in pre-season, and Fernandes' wonder strike lit up the contest.

It took just three minutes for the midfielder to announce himself as a Tottenham player, scoring a wonderful goal, which proved to be the difference between the two teams.

Fernandes and Tonali both played the opening 45 minutes on their debuts, with the pair impressing, while Mathys Tel also caught the eye down the left.

It was a worthwhile exercise for Tottenham against a MK Dons outfit that provided a challenge, and it will be fascinating to see what Spurs can achieve in the new season given their struggles last term and their summer spending, which will grow in the coming weeks.

TOTTENHAM VS. MK DONS HIGHLIGHTS

Mateus Fernandes goal vs. MK Dons (3rd min, Tottenham 1-0 MK Dons)

Tottenham make the breakthrough in the third minute of the clash, and it is a first Spurs goal for debutant Fernandes, with the midfielder scoring a stunning volley from outside the penalty box.

Fernandes' effort went in off the post, what a start to his Tottenham career!

MAN OF THE MATCH - MATEUS FERNANDES

Fernandes had a very encouraging debut for Tottenham, with his standout moment coming early on when he struck into the back of the net from distance.

The Portuguese's use of the ball was also excellent, and the 22-year-old has the potential to become an incredible signing for the North London club.

TOTTENHAM VS. MK DONS MATCH STATS

Possession: Tottenham 71%-29% MK Dons

Shots: Tottenham 9-5 MK Dons

Shots on target: Tottenham 4-3 MK Dons

Corners: Tottenham 5-6 MK Dons

Fouls: Tottenham 10-9 MK Dons

WHAT NEXT?

Tottenham's preparations for their 2026-27 Premier League campaign will continue on July 25 when they take on Auckland FC as part of their pre-season tour of New Zealand and Australia.

MK Dons, meanwhile, have three more friendlies before the start of their new season, with Paul Warne's side next in action against Wealdstone on July 25.