Cristian Romero set for Tottenham exit as Barcelona become preferred destination

Cristian Romero is expected to leave Tottenham Hotspur this summer, with FootballPlace understanding that the Argentina international favours a move to Barcelona despite growing interest from Inter Milan.

The 28-year-old has made his desire to leave north London clear following another turbulent campaign, and while talks have reportedly taken place with the Serie A champions, a switch to La Liga remains his preferred option.

With three years still remaining on his contract, Tottenham are in a strong negotiating position and are expected to demand a substantial transfer fee for one of their most experienced players.

FootballPlace understands Romero's priority is a move to Barcelona, who have shown interest in strengthening their defence this summer.

Inter Milan have also held discussions over a possible transfer in recent days, but the defender is believed to favour continuing his career in Spain should he leave the Premier League.

Atlético Madrid had also been linked with Romero earlier in the window, with Diego Simeone a long-time admirer of his fellow Argentine. However, no formal offer materialised, leaving Barcelona as the player's preferred destination.

Any deal is expected to depend on whether the Catalan club can meet Tottenham's valuation.

Romero joined Tottenham from Atalanta in 2021 and has made 156 appearances, scoring 13 goals in all competitions.

He played a key role in Spurs' Europa League triumph in 2025, completing the full 90 minutes in the final victory over Manchester United, and was later appointed club captain.

However, his time in north London has also been marked by injuries and periods of tension with sections of the fanbase. Last season he featured 32 times, scoring four goals, but fitness issues again disrupted his campaign.

Romero also attracted attention towards the end of the season after reports suggested he had considered returning to Argentina to watch former club Belgrano instead of attending Tottenham's decisive final league match, before ultimately reversing that decision and remaining with the squad.

For now, Romero's attention remains on international duty.

The World Cup-winning defender is preparing for Argentina's semi-final against England, hoping to help his country reach another final before his club future is resolved.

Once the tournament concludes, discussions over his next move are expected to accelerate. Tottenham appear open to a sale if their valuation is met, while Barcelona will need to balance their interest with the financial realities of completing a deal for one of Europe's leading centre-backs.

Romero's immediate focus is Argentina's World Cup campaign, but transfer negotiations are expected to intensify once the tournament ends. Barcelona are currently his preferred destination, although any agreement will depend on Tottenham's asking price and the Spanish club's ability to finance the move.

Should Tottenham cash in on Cristian Romero this summer, or is he too important to lose ahead of the new season?