Arsenal have been dealt a major setback in their pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero, with Fabrizio Romano providing a fresh update on the situation.
The Gunners have been linked with a move for the Argentina international as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his defence ahead of the new season. However, Tottenham’s position could make a potential transfer between the two north London rivals extremely difficult.
Tottenham Refuse to Sell Romero to Arsenal
According to Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham have made their position clear regarding a possible deal with Arsenal.
Romano reported that Tottenham’s board, management and ownership have decided against selling Romero to their Premier League rivals. The club are unwilling to enter negotiations with Arsenal because of the intense rivalry between the two sides.
That means Arsenal cannot simply make an offer and expect Tottenham to negotiate. Spurs would have to change their current stance before a direct move to the Emirates could become realistic.
Romero remains under contract with Tottenham, giving the club significant control over his future.
Arsenal Still Interested in Cristian Romero
Despite Tottenham’s position, Arsenal have reportedly shown interest in the defender.
The Gunners are looking for defensive reinforcements, particularly with concerns surrounding their centre-back options. Romero’s Premier League experience, leadership qualities and aggressive style make him an attractive option for Arteta.
Reports indicate that Arsenal have made enquiries about the 28-year-old defender, but Tottenham would prefer to sell him to a club outside England rather than strengthen their biggest domestic rivals.
A move directly from Tottenham to Arsenal would also carry significant historical and emotional weight because of the rivalry between the clubs.
The Only Way Arsenal Could Sign Romero
With Tottenham refusing to sell Romero directly to Arsenal, the situation appears straightforward: Spurs would first have to change their position.
If Tottenham continue to reject negotiations with Arsenal, the Gunners would have to look at alternative defensive targets or hope the situation changes before the transfer window closes.
This is particularly important because Romero has attracted interest from clubs outside England, giving Tottenham potential alternatives to an Arsenal deal.
Atlético Madrid and Inter Milan Also Interested
Arsenal are not the only club monitoring Romero’s situation.
Atlético Madrid have been strongly linked with the Argentine defender, while Inter Milan have also shown interest. Recent reports suggest Atlético are working on a possible offer, although Romano has indicated that negotiations with Romero’s representatives are still ongoing.
Tottenham would therefore have options if they decide to sell their captain.
A move abroad would also allow Spurs to avoid strengthening a direct Premier League rival.
Fabrizio Romano Provides Fresh Update
Romano’s latest comments will be frustrating for Arsenal supporters because they suggest Tottenham’s opposition is not simply a negotiating tactic.
The transfer expert has stated that the club’s key decision-makers are currently united in their decision not to sell Romero to Arsenal.
However, the transfer window remains open, meaning the situation could still change if Tottenham receive an offer that significantly alters their position.
For now, though, Arsenal face a difficult route if they want to bring Romero across north London.
What Happens Next?
Arsenal must now decide whether to continue pursuing Romero or turn their attention towards alternative centre-backs.
The defender’s availability and Tottenham’s stance mean that a direct transfer remains complicated. Atlético Madrid and Inter Milan could provide Romero with alternative destinations if Spurs decide to sell.
For Arsenal, the message is clear: Tottenham currently have no intention of selling Cristian Romero to them.
Unless that position changes, the Gunners may need to explore other options to strengthen Arteta’s defence before the transfer window closes.
