Real Madrid have reportedly been in contact with Cristian Romero's representatives to discuss a move for the Tottenham Hotspur defender during this summer's transfer window.
Los Blancos will be boosting their attack with the acquisitions of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick this summer, but the club are not thought to be planning to sign a new central midfielder despite Toni Kroos's retirement.
Instead, Jude Bellingham is likely to move back from the number 10 position into central midfield, with Mbappe joining Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo in the final third of the field.
However, according to ESPN Argentina, Real Madrid are looking to sign a centre-back, with the club making contact with Romero's camp to discuss the possibility of a switch to Bernabeu.
The report claims that Carlo Ancelotti's side are giving serious consideration to a move for the 26-year-old, who is currently with the Argentina squad preparing for the Copa America.
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Real Madrid 'make approach for Romero'
Real Madrid are allegedly keen to learn how much it would take to sign Romero this summer, with Tottenham expected to battle to keep hold of one of their most important players.
The defender made the move to Spurs from Atalanta BC in 2021, initially on loan, and he has represented his current side on 98 occasions, scoring six goals and registering one assist in the process.
Romero was again a vital player for Tottenham during the 2023-24 campaign, making 34 appearances, scoring five times in the process, with all of his goals coming in the Premier League.
Ange Postecoglou's side have the South American on a contract until June 2027, so they are in a strong position when it comes to his future.
However, Romero is believed to be keen to secure a switch to Real Madrid this summer and could potentially put pressure on his current side to agree terms with the European champions.
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Do Real Madrid need another centre-back this summer?
Much will depend on Nacho's future, as it is still unclear whether the experienced centre-back will be signing a new contract at Bernabeu, with his current deal due to expire on June 30.
Real Madrid had problems in the middle of their defence last season, with Eder Militao missing a lot of football due to an ACL injury, while David Alaba suffered a serious knee problem of his own towards the end of 2023.
Aurelien Tchouameni was therefore required at times alongside Antonio Rudiger in the middle of the defence, but Nacho was largely paired with the German in the second half of the season.
If Nacho does leave, it makes sense for Real Madrid to move for a new defender, especially as there are doubts over Alaba's long-term future at Bernabeu.
Tottenham can demand a high price for one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League, though, and it remains to be seen whether an agreement can be reached.
Matt Law
