Inter Milan confirm Cristian Romero talks as Tottenham prepare to let captain leave

Sporting director Piero Ausilio revealed negotiations are underway with both the player and Spurs as Inter look to strengthen their defence ahead of the new season.

"It's definitely a deal we are trying to sign with the player and the club (Tottenham)," Ausilio told Sky Italy.

"These things take some time but there's definitely interest. Let's see."

Romero has emerged as one of Inter's leading defensive targets, with the Serie A champions also monitoring former Manchester City defender John Stones, while they remain in the market for a full-back.

The 28-year-old appears increasingly likely to leave north London after five years at the club, with Tottenham prepared to sanction his departure if a suitable offer is made. His contract runs until 2029, but the club have already reinforced their defence by signing Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton for 52 million pounds and Marcos Senesi on a free transfer.

Romero's representatives have been in Milan for discussions with Inter officials, while reports in Italy claim the Nerazzurri are preparing an opening proposal structured as a loan with an obligation to buy. The total package is expected to be worth around 40 million euros, although Tottenham are believed to value their captain closer to 50 million euros.

The centre-back enjoyed another successful international campaign by helping Argentina reach a second successive World Cup final, but his 2025-26 season at club level proved more turbulent. He served four suspensions during the campaign after also missing the closing stages of the season with a knee injury.

Romero also came under fire from some Tottenham supporters when he was initially expected to attend boyhood club Belgrano's Argentine Primera Division final instead of Spurs' decisive final Premier League match against Everton, although he ultimately attended Tottenham's fixture as they secured top-flight survival.

Since arriving from Atalanta in 2021, Romero has made 156 appearances for Spurs, scoring 12 goals and helping the club lift the Europa League trophy last season.

Inter are also exploring options at full-back, with Tottenham's Djed Spence among the players under consideration. However, interest in the English defender has cooled in recent weeks, with Monaco's Vanderson and Feyenoord's Givairo Read also on the Italian club's shortlist.

Negotiations will likely intensify in the coming days, with Ausilio expected to lead a new round of talks with Spurs officials shortly. With the player's heart seemingly set on a return to Italy, the onus is now on the two clubs to reach a compromise on the final price tag.

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