Inter Milan reach agreement with Tottenham for Cristian Romero

Inter Milan have taken a significant step towards signing Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero after reportedly reaching a basic agreement with the Premier League club over a permanent transfer.

According to SportItalia journalist Gianluigi Longari, Tottenham are prepared to sell the Argentina international for around €40 million, with negotiations now focused on agreeing personal terms between Inter and the player's representatives.

Romero is understood to have decided that this summer is the right time to leave north London after two difficult seasons with Spurs.

The 28-year-old enhanced his reputation at the FIFA World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in helping Argentina reach the final, further increasing interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs.

Inter have been monitoring Romero's situation for several weeks and reportedly intensified their efforts during discussions with Tottenham over Djed Spence. Although negotiations for Spence failed to progress, the Italian champions switched their attention to the experienced centre-back.

Reports now suggest the two clubs have reached a framework agreement, leaving player negotiations as the final major hurdle.

Despite progress between the clubs, Inter have yet to strike an agreement with Romero over his contract.

Discussions with the defender's entourage are continuing, but there has reportedly been no breakthrough on salary expectations.

The negotiations have become increasingly important following Inter's move for John Stones, who is expected to arrive on a free transfer. The England international is likely to command a substantial salary, meaning Romero's representatives are expected to seek comparable financial terms before approving a move.

Barcelona remain interested in signing Romero but are currently unable to compete on equal terms.

The Spanish champions reportedly need to generate funds through player sales before making a formal move, giving Inter an opportunity to complete the transfer first.

Unless Barcelona's financial situation changes quickly, Inter appear to be in the strongest position to secure the Argentina international's signature.

Romero would add proven Serie A experience to Inter's defence after previously impressing for both Genoa and Atalanta before joining Tottenham. While an agreement with Spurs appears to be taking shape, the outcome of salary negotiations is now likely to determine whether the transfer is completed before the new season.

Inter will continue negotiations with Romero's representatives in an attempt to finalise a salary package. If an agreement can be reached, the Italian champions are expected to move quickly to complete the transfer before Barcelona are able to enter the race with a formal offer.