Atletico hold talks with Spurs captain Romero

Atletico Madrid have initiated negotiations with Tottenham Hotspur regarding a potential transfer for their captain, Cristian Romero. The Argentine defender, who recently signed a new four-year contract with Spurs in August, is anticipating a departure from the club this summer. Interest from Inter Milan has also been reported, with the 28-year-old having participated in Argentina's World Cup run, which concluded in a loss to Spain.

Nonetheless, Atletico manager Diego Simeone, who has identified Romero as a priority target, is pursuing another approach to secure the center-back. Tottenham management is cognizant of Atletico's interest, but an agreement on financial terms is not anticipated to pose a challenge. Tottenham's manager, Roberto de Zerbi, recently affirmed his respect for players' decisions to seek new opportunities.

Romero was sidelined during the previous season due to a knee injury, helping Tottenham avoid relegation on the final matchday. He was also sent off twice during the campaign, resulting in the team's 17th-place finish in the league. Additionally, another center-back, Micky van de Ven, is progressing towards a new five-year contract with the London club.