24yr old “top of the list” as Tottenham look to replace key star who is “going to move on”

The potential departure of Cristian Romero has forced Tottenham into proactive planning, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi emerging as their primary defensive target for the summer transfer window.

As the Argentine center-back attracts serious interest from Spanish giants Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, former Spurs goalkeeper Paul Robinson has identified the 24-year-old England international as the ideal replacement to shore up Ange Postecoglou’s backline.

Romero’s likely exit would leave a significant void in Tottenham’s defense. The World Cup winner has been instrumental since arriving in North London, combining tenacious defending with impressive ball-playing abilities.

However, Guehi’s consistent performances for Palace and England suggest he possesses the quality and maturity to fill those shoes. The Chelsea academy product has developed into one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders, demonstrating leadership beyond his years while captaining the Eagles on multiple occasions.

Robinson’s assessment of Tottenham’s defensive needs carries particular weight given the club’s current predicament. “With Romero leaving, it’s looking more and more likely day by day that he’s going to move on,” the former Spurs shot-stopper told Tottenham News.

“If Romero does go, they’re going to need two more [center-backs], in my opinion.” This stark evaluation highlights the scale of rebuilding required, especially considering Tottenham’s defensive frailties this season.

Guehi represents more than just a like-for-like replacement. His Premier League experience, composed defending, and ability to play out from the back align perfectly with Postecoglou’s tactical demands.

The defender’s leadership qualities would also help organize a backline that has often looked disjointed this campaign. However, Robinson rightly questions whether Tottenham can win the race for his signature without Champions League football – especially with Newcastle potentially offering both European elite competition and superior financial terms.

The Europa League final against Manchester United now carries added significance. Victory in Bilbao would secure Champions League qualification, transforming Tottenham’s appeal to targets like Guehi. As Robinson notes: “Guehi would be top of the list if they can beat anyone else to his signature…

There’s so much hanging on their Europa League success.” This single match could determine whether Spurs can attract elite defensive reinforcements or face settling for secondary options.

Tottenham’s interest in Guehi isn’t new – scouts have monitored his progress for months. But the timing of this pursuit presents both opportunity and risk. While Palace may be reluctant to sell, the defender’s ambition to test himself at a higher level could force their hand.

For Tottenham, securing Guehi’s signature would represent a major coup, signaling their intent to rebuild around young, proven Premier League talent rather than speculative imports.

As the summer window approaches, this potential transfer encapsulates Tottenham’s broader challenges. Can they convince top English talent to join without guaranteed Champions League football? Will they need to sell before they can buy?

And can Postecoglou build a more resilient defensive unit? The answers to these questions will shape Tottenham’s trajectory for years to come, with Guehi’s potential arrival marking either the beginning of a new era or another missed opportunity in their quest to reestablish themselves among England’s elite.