Tottenham receive answer on Cristian Romero – Conor Gallagher swap deal
The proposed Cristian Romero-Conor Gallagher swap deal between Tottenham and Atletico Madrid appears increasingly unlikely as new details emerge about both clubs’ firm negotiating positions.
Recent reports from Spanish outlet Marca reveal significant obstacles to any potential transaction, with Atletico demonstrating little willingness to part ways with the England midfielder despite their strong interest in Tottenham’s defensive stalwart.
Atletico’s pursuit of Romero has entered its preparatory phase, with Diego Simeone’s side currently working to free up a non-EU squad spot in anticipation of signing the Argentine center-back.
However, their valuation falls considerably short of Daniel Levy’s £60 million asking price, creating an immediate impasse in negotiations. The Spanish club’s expected opening bid is reportedly nowhere near Tottenham’s valuation, setting the stage for protracted discussions.
The situation grows more complex when examining Gallagher’s position at Atletico. Contrary to speculation suggesting his potential inclusion in a deal for Romero, Marca’s report indicates the La Liga outfit hold the Chelsea academy graduate in high regard.
Atletico would only consider selling Gallagher for a “huge offer” – a stance that effectively removes him from the equation as a makeweight in any Romero transfer. This development dashes Tottenham’s hopes of finally securing their long-term midfield target through this potential exchange.
Levy has established clear parameters for any Romero departure, insisting negotiations won’t properly commence until Tottenham’s Europa League campaign concludes.
The chairman’s stance reflects both the importance of Romero to their European ambitions and the club’s desire to maximize his value.
With two years remaining on the defender’s contract, Tottenham find themselves in a relatively strong negotiating position despite the player’s apparent appeal to Simeone’s project.
This standoff highlights the challenges facing both clubs in the upcoming transfer window. Atletico must either significantly increase their financial offer or identify alternative assets that might tempt Tottenham, while Spurs face the reality that their dream scenario of landing Gallagher as part of the deal appears increasingly improbable.
The situation remains fluid, with Romero’s future intrinsically tied to Tottenham’s European success. A deep Europa League run could see his value rise further, while an early exit might force Spurs to reconsider their stance.
What’s clear is that any resolution to this transfer saga will require one club to blink first in what’s shaping up to be a classic Levy-style negotiation – protracted, calculated, and unlikely to conclude quickly.
For now, Tottenham can take solace in knowing they hold most of the cards regarding Romero’s future, while Atletico face the difficult decision of whether to meet Spurs’ valuation or turn their attention to alternative defensive targets.
As the summer window approaches, this developing story promises to be one of the more intriguing transfer sagas involving Premier League talent.