Cristian Romero: United poised to table tempting bid in race for Spurs defender

Manchester United are ready to accelerate their pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Cristian Romero by lodging a €60 million offer that could knock both Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid out of the running, according to Spanish outlet Defensa Central.

The 27-year-old World Cup winner emerged as a target for United earlier this week when initial reports linked the Red Devils with the Argentine alongside persistent interest from the two Madrid giants. While the La Liga clubs have expressed caution over Old Trafford’s involvement, INEOS-backed United are now prepared to formalise their admiration with a concrete bid.

Romero’s current contract with Spurs runs until 2029, yet sources indicate a gentlemen’s agreement exists that would allow him to leave north London for the right price. That valuation is understood to be the very figure United are willing to table, positioning the Premier League side as front-runners for the defender’s signature.

United’s hierarchy view Romero as the type of proven, battle-tested acquisition that served them well last summer. Injuries to Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez and Matthijs de Ligt have underlined the squad’s fragility at centre-half, prompting the club to prioritise reinforcements even though midfield and left-wing vacancies dominate headlines.

Romero’s aggressive, front-footed style—marked by dominant one-v-one duels, relentless pressing and crisp tackling—fits the profile United believe can sustain a multi-competition campaign. His South American steel is seen as an antidote to the defensive instability that cost the team points during prolonged stretches without senior options.

With INEOS moving swiftly and strategically, United could repeat last summer’s successful recruitment of established Premier League talent, ensuring Erik ten Hag’s rearguard remains competitive regardless of future fitness setbacks.