Romero Is Still Waiting. Atlético Are Already Negotiating

Cristian Romero has not completely closed the door on Barcelona. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Argentine is waiting to see whether Barça make a move following Ronald Araujo’s loan to Liverpool. Deco has spoken to Romero’s agent, but no offer has been submitted.

Atlético Madrid are providing a rather less philosophical response. The Guardian reports that talks with Tottenham are advanced and personal terms with Romero are believed to have been agreed. Nothing is official yet, but Atlético’s interest has progressed beyond Barça’s preferred stage of quietly admiring a player.

Barcelona are prioritising Rodri and a striker. Deco and Hansi Flick reportedly believe they already have enough centre-back options in Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Andreas Christensen and Álvaro Cortés, with Eric García and Jules Koundé also available. The captain has left, but the club have discovered six different ways not to replace him.

Should Atlético complete the deal, Barça will only have to explain that Romero was never really a priority. In Barcelona, that statement usually travels considerably faster than an actual bid.