Atlético Madrid rushes to land 'Cuti' Romero ahead of Inter

Atlético Madrid have crashed into the race for Cristian Romero just as the Argentine defender seemed poised to join Inter Milan. According to Marca, the Colchoneros have submitted an opening bid of €30 million for the Tottenham centre-back, aged 28.

The deal between the Italians and Spurs had reached an agreement worth €35 million plus €5 in add-ons, but has stalled because Inter need to sell players after signing Stones. Atlético, aware that Romero wants to play in Spain and work under fellow Argentine Diego Pablo Simeone, believe they can edge ahead of the Milan side.

To fund the operation, the Madrid club are accelerating departures: Nahuel Molina is travelling to Roma, Almada is weighing River and Flamengo offers, and Ruggeri is close to Aston Villa. Those sales could raise around €50 million, enabling them to seal the Cuti signing. Simeone had persistently requested him last season, and his arrival would allow them to deploy three versatile centre-backs alongside Pubill and Hancko.