Atletico Madrid has initiated talks for Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero, who is widely expected to leave the London club this summer. The Argentine defender signed a new four-year contract with Spurs last August, but his future appears to be elsewhere.
Inter Milan has also shown interest in acquiring the 28-year-old center-back. However, Romero has long been a target for Atletico manager Diego Simeone, and the Spanish club is reportedly pushing forward with renewed efforts to secure his transfer. Tottenham is reportedly aware of Atletico's pursuit, and the player's personal terms are not anticipated to be an obstacle.
Romero, who played in all seven of Argentina's matches during their recent World Cup campaign, where they ultimately lost to Spain in the final, missed the latter part of Tottenham's last season due to a knee injury. The club narrowly avoided relegation on the final day of the season. He also received two red cards during the previous campaign, which saw Spurs finish 17th in the league.
In related news, fellow Tottenham center-back Micky van de Ven is reportedly close to finalizing a new five-year contract with the club. Tottenham boss Roberto de Zerbi has previously stated that he would "respect the will" of players who wish to leave.