Arsenal are preparing to mount a serious challenge to sign Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero as they seek defensive reinforcements this summer.
The Gunners are set to begin their Premier League title defence later this month but face a significant blow with William Saliba sidelined through injury.
Saliba suffered a back injury during this summer’s World Cup and has decided against surgery, meaning he faces an indefinite spell on the treatment table.
With Saliba’s importance to Mikel Arteta’s side well established, Arsenal are expected to move for a centre-back before the summer transfer window closes.
Football Transfers has reported that Romero has emerged as a top target, with Arteta keen on bringing the 28-year-old in to cover for Saliba and improve depth at the back.
Romero is expected to leave Spurs this month and has attracted interest from Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan among other clubs across Europe.
The Argentine is valued at £43 million on Transfermarkt, though his asking price could be significantly higher given his age and quality.
Romero has spent several years in England without winning any major silverware beyond the UEFA Europa League, which could make a move to Arsenal an appealing prospect.
Arsenal won the Premier League last year and reached the Champions League final, offering Romero a genuine platform to compete for the highest honours.
Though Atletico Madrid are considered tough competition for his signature, with Diego Simeone reportedly keen and several Argentines already at the club, Arsenal’s recent success strengthens their case considerably.
Inter Milan may struggle to match Arsenal financially, while Atletico remain well behind Barcelona and Real Madrid domestically, arguably limiting their appeal for a player of Romero’s ambition.
Romero’s aggression, tackling, aerial ability, positioning, and threat from set pieces would make him a strong addition to Arteta’s defensive options this season.
It remains to be seen where the former Atalanta defender will ultimately land, but Arsenal appear determined to win the race for his signature.