Arsenal step up Cristian Romero pursuit despite Tottenham transfer stance

Arsenal have intensified their pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero despite Spurs' determination not to sell the Argentina international to their north London rivals.

Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen his defence before the transfer window closes, but faces competition from Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan and Barcelona for the 28-year-old centre-back.

According to Argentine journalist Gastón Edul, Arsenal's interest in Romero is genuine, although Atletico Madrid remain the most advanced club in the race.

Inter Milan have reportedly reached an agreement with Tottenham over a €40 million transfer fee but are yet to agree personal terms with the defender. Atletico are also preparing an improved offer after seeing an initial €30 million bid rejected.

Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà adds that Arsenal have stepped up their efforts in recent days, with Arteta personally pushing to bring the World Cup winner to the Emirates.

"Arsenal are also in the running, with Arteta pressing and in action in the last few hours."

Despite Arsenal's growing interest, Tottenham have no desire to strengthen one of their biggest rivals.

According to El Desmarque, Spurs are refusing to negotiate a direct sale to Arsenal, although the report claims there is one route that could still make the transfer possible.

Romero is said to have a £55 million (€64.2 million) release clause that applies to Premier League clubs, meaning Arsenal could bypass Tottenham's stance by activating it.

The Gunners have also reportedly made contact with Romero's representatives as they continue exploring the feasibility of a deal.

Atletico Madrid continue to push hard for Romero and are reportedly offering the defender a salary worth €6 million net per season.

Barcelona are also monitoring the situation following Ronald Araújo's expected move to Liverpool, which could force the Catalan club back into the market for a centre-back.

With interest arriving from across Europe, Romero now faces a major decision over the next stage of his career.

Arsenal are expected to continue assessing whether to trigger Romero's reported release clause as they compete with Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan and Barcelona for his signature. Tottenham's refusal to negotiate directly means any move could depend on whether the Gunners are prepared to meet the clause before the transfer window closes.