Barcelona are gearing up for a busy summer transfer window, and defensive reinforcements are at the top of their shopping list. The Catalan giants have set their sights on a Premier League raid, with Tottenham Hotspur's Cristian Romero emerging as a prime target.
According to SPORT, Barcelona have identified the Spurs centre-back as a fallback option if their pursuit of Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni falls through. Bastoni was initially the club's top priority, but prising him away from the San Siro is proving to be a tougher nut to crack.
Inter are under no pressure to sell their prized asset, especially with two years still left on his contract. To fend off Barcelona's advances, the Nerazzurri have slapped a hefty €70 million price tag on Bastoni—a move that appears to be working, as the Spanish side are already exploring alternative options.
Enter Cristian Romero. The 28-year-old World Cup winner has long expressed a desire to test himself in La Liga, and this summer could be his chance to make the leap. Barcelona have been in need of a top-class centre-back since Inigo Martinez departed for the Saudi Pro League last season, and Romero fits the bill perfectly.
Reports suggest Barcelona have already made initial contact with Romero's representatives, signaling their serious intent. However, any potential deal hinges on Tottenham's Premier League survival. The North London club are locked in a fierce relegation battle, and if they drop to the Championship, a release clause could make Romero's exit much more achievable for Barcelona.
Romero would bring a blend of pedigree, aggression, and experience to the Barcelona backline. His leadership qualities would also be a valuable asset to a relatively young squad, should they manage to get a deal over the line.
Meanwhile, Barcelona haven't given up on Bastoni just yet. They continue to hold out hope for a breakthrough with Inter, while also keeping tabs on Al Hilal loanee Joao Cancelo as another potential option. With the summer window approaching, the Catalan club are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to bolster their defense.