Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly identified the player who could replace Crsitian Romero but their North London rivals, Arsenal, will not allow the Lilywhites to sign him without a fight.
Cristian Romero’s future uncertain
Tottenham may not be in any immediate danger of losing Romero, whose current deal at the club runs until 2026.
However, it was reported by GiveMeSport a few days ago that the Argentine is hesitant to commit to a new contract at the North London club.
This is because the 26-year-old’s head has allegedly been turned by Real Madrid and he is tempted to move to the Spanish captain if Los Blancos come knocking for him next summer.
Spurs identify Romero’s replacement
It has now been reported by TBR Football that in case Spurs lose their vice-captain next summer, they have identified Sporting Lisbon’s Ousmane Diomande as the man to take his place in the squad.
The 20-year-old is quickly garnering a reputation as one of the best young centre-backs in Europe, and it is revealed that he has been on Tottenham’s radar for a while.
In fact, the outlet reveals that Spurs were keeping tabs on the Ivory Coast international even before they secured Radu Dragusin from Genoa at the start of 2024.
MORE SPURS STORIES
Ousmane Diomande will not be easy to get
However, TBR Football say that Spurs will face some stumbling blocks in their efforts to sign the Sporting star, with Arsenal also said to be keen on the youngster.
In fact, the Gunners have reportedly been scouting the defender on a regular basis, while Chelsea, Newcastle and Liverpool are also keeping an eye on his development.
The publication adds that Diomande’s release clause stands at around £68m but the centre-back is expected to be available for a fee of around £42m to £51m.