Arsenal are intensifying their efforts to sign Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero, according to reports in Italy, as the Premier League champions scramble for defensive cover following a significant injury to William Saliba. The 28-year-old Argentine international, who started the World Cup final for his country, has made it clear he wants to leave Spurs this summer after five years in north London.
Romero's desire to leave Tottenham
Romero, who joined Tottenham from Atalanta in 2022 for £42.5 million, has been a mainstay in the team, making 123 Premier League appearances. However, after enduring back-to-back relegation battles, he is eager for a fresh start. Reports suggest he has already approved a move to La Liga giants Atletico Madrid, who are considered the frontrunners for his signature.
The Argentine's availability has attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan. Arsenal, in particular, are believed to be 'pushing hard' this week to secure Romero as they look to fill the void left by Saliba.
Saliba's injury blow
Saliba, who has established himself as one of the world's best defenders, helped Arsenal win the Premier League and reach the Champions League final last season. However, he aggravated a back injury during the World Cup and will be out for an 'extended period'. Arsenal confirmed in a statement: 'William Saliba has returned to us from World Cup duty, where he played an integral role in France reaching the semi-finals of the competition. Subsequent specialist reviews on William's return to London this week have confirmed that he has suffered a back injury which will require a period of rehabilitation. Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William should now commence a managed recovery programme.'
The statement added: 'William's rehabilitation will commence immediately, with continual management of his injury, and he is expected to be out of action for an extended period. Everyone is fully focused on supporting William to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.'
Arsenal's defensive options
With Saliba sidelined, Arsenal have been linked with several defenders, including Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa and former Manchester City star John Stones, who recently joined Inter Milan. However, Romero appears to be a primary target, despite the historically tense relations between Arsenal and Tottenham. Atletico Madrid, however, are still believed to be leading the transfer race.
Arsenal have had a relatively quiet summer transfer window so far, with only winger Christos Tzolis and backup goalkeeper Illan Meslier arriving. However, the club is set to complete a £75 million deal for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes and remains interested in a sensational move for Real Madrid and Brazil icon Vinicius Junior.
Impact on Arsenal's season
The potential signing of Romero would be a significant statement of intent from Arsenal, who are aiming to defend their Premier League title and compete for the Champions League. Romero's experience and defensive prowess would provide much-needed cover in Saliba's absence. However, with Atletico Madrid leading the chase, Arsenal face an uphill battle to secure the Argentine's services.
As the transfer window progresses, Arsenal fans will be eagerly watching to see if the club can pull off a deal for Romero or if they will need to turn to alternative targets. The coming weeks will be crucial for Mikel Arteta's side as they look to strengthen their squad for the challenges ahead.
