Tottenham ‘prepare for Romero exit’ as new transfer ready now
Cristian Romero has been a star performer for Tottenham, but his future is unclear.
Thomas Frank has admitted that he expects Romero to stay at the Lilywhites despite strong interest from Atletico Madrid.
The defender was Tottenham’s best player as they won the Europa League, and losing him would be a crushing blow despite investment in other areas of the squad.
The Argentinian’s future is still far from certain, and even if he does not leave this summer, a future exit is on the cards, with Spurs now planning for a possible departure.
Tottenham interested in Ilya Zabarnyi
It has now emerged that Tottenham are interested in Bournemouth star Ilya Zabarnyi, who has impressed in the Premier League.
Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain are keen on the Ukrainian and have had a £55 million bid rejected for the centre-back.
| Stat | Zabarnyi |
| Appearances | 86 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
However, Luca Bendoni has reported that Spurs are ready to pay the £60.6million request, with add-ons included, to get a deal over the line.
Bournemouth have already lost Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez from their back line, and while a sale to Tottenham appears unlikely this summer, the shock link could indicate an exit for Romero.
Zabarnyi could replace Romero
Tottenham now have a lot of centre-backs on the books, with Kevin Danso’s loan move made permanent, in addition to the signings of Kota Takai and Luka Vuskovic.
For another to arrive, and a big-money one in Zabarnyi, it would almost certainly mean Romero leaves, and the Bournemouth defender is his replacement.
Despite being just 22, Zabarnyi has two strong seasons of Premier League experience under his belt and has played in a high line under Andoni Iraola.
If Spurs are to lose Romero, then Zabarnyi may be the ideal successor, if they can beat PSG to his signature, and moving now could preempt a departure for the World Cup winner.
Romero’s injury record and defensive discipline have been frustrating at times, and taking a huge fee for him now with a replacement lined up may be the best course of action for Spurs, as much as fans would hate to see him leave.
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