After Romero outburst: Tottenham to seal off deal for world’s best CBs becomes available

Tottenham Hotspur face a critical juncture as they navigate the aftermath of parting ways with Ange Postecoglou, and among the more pressing concerns looming over the club is the future of their defensive linchpin, Cristian Romero.

The Argentine center-back has steadily garnered admiration and high praise from players and pundits across the Premier League, with some hailing him as one of the best in the world in his position.

That kind of acclaim brings with it the inevitable consequence: increasing interest from top clubs across Europe.

While no official transfer request has yet been submitted, Tottenham have wisely begun preparing for the worst-case scenario.

With Romero continuing to impress and his value at an all-time high following a standout campaign that included earning the Europa League Player of the Tournament honor, Spurs are maintaining a growing shortlist of potential replacements.

Their scouting efforts have primarily focused on Serie A, a league known for its production of elite defenders, but recent developments have pointed the club’s attention toward another proven name—Kim Min-jae of Bayern Munich.

Kim Min-jae, at 28 years old, is not just an alternative option; he may very well be the most viable solution should Romero opt to leave.

Reports from Sky Sports Germany, particularly from respected journalist Florian Plettenberg, suggest Bayern Munich have placed Kim on their list of players they are open to selling during the current window, provided a suitable offer arrives.

This shift in availability could align perfectly with Tottenham’s need for a reliable and experienced center-back.

Despite helping Bayern and previously Napoli secure major titles, Kim has not received the treatment one might expect from a club of Bayern’s stature.

Throughout the past season, he faced undue criticism from the media and internal scrutiny that bordered on scapegoating, particularly during a stretch in which he was playing through injury.

According to reports, even FIFPro—the global representative organization for professional footballers—intervened, highlighting the mistreatment Kim endured. That kind of toxic environment could be the motivation Kim needs to seek a fresh start, and Tottenham might be the ideal destination for him.

Although Spurs have had their own internal issues, including fan frustrations directed at chairman Daniel Levy, the North London outfit might offer Kim a more stable and appreciative environment—especially under new leadership in the dugout.

And on the pitch, Kim presents a highly attractive profile. In his breakout season with Napoli during their 2022/23 Scudetto-winning campaign, he established himself as one of the most complete defenders in the game.

Calm under pressure, tactically sharp, and comfortable in possession, Kim combines composure with physicality, making him a perfect candidate to partner with the fleet-footed Micky van de Ven.

While Romero brings a fiery, aggressive presence to the backline, Kim would complement van de Ven with a more balanced and calculated approach.

His ability to intercept, anticipate plays, and launch accurate passes from the back offers a different dimension—one that could help Tottenham build from defense with more control and intelligence.

Even with Romero still at the club, the potential addition of Kim could elevate Spurs’ defensive structure, particularly with the increased fixture demands of European football.

But should Romero decide to move on—especially amid renewed interest from Atletico Madrid—the club must act swiftly. Although Atletico’s previous pursuit of Romero cooled off due to his soaring valuation during Tottenham’s Europa League run, the Spanish giants may reignite their interest with the right encouragement from the player’s camp.

It’s clear that Tottenham are not short on options, but the quality of those options varies. Many of the players linked to the club, including Brentford’s Nathan Collins, do not bring the same pedigree or top-level experience as Kim Min-jae.

While Collins has shown potential under Thomas Frank, he remains unproven on the bigger stages. In contrast, Kim has already demonstrated his abilities in the Champions League, Serie A, and Bundesliga, making him a far more reliable choice if Spurs aim to maintain or elevate their competitive level.

In a summer where decisions will define the direction of the club for years to come, Tottenham must tread carefully. Keeping Cristian Romero should be a top priority, but the reality of modern football means preparing for all possibilities.

If it comes to securing a replacement, very few fit the bill like Kim Min-jae. With availability confirmed and a desire to leave a hostile environment in Munich, the opportunity is there. All that remains is for Tottenham to act boldly and decisively.