Cristian Romero's Tottenham exit blocked?! Atletico Madrid near €50m deal for Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie following previous interest in Spurs' Argentine World Cup winner

Romero is determined to leave Tottenham this summer, with Atletico Madrid seemingly interested in acquiring his services. However, Romero's exit could be in jeopardy following the news that the Liga giants are nearing a deal to sign Piero Hincapie.

According to Catalan outlet Mundo Deportivo, Atletico have set their sights on signing Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Hincapie this summer, with Los Rojiblancos already establishing contacts with both the player and his entourage. They have also reciprocated Atleti's interest by showing a willingness to leave BayArena and arrive at the Metropolitano. Head coach Diego Simeone likes the player's versatility, as the Ecuadorian can operate both as a centre-back and a left-back. However, his signing could complicate the potential arrival of Romero.

Romero has already stated that he "would love to play in La Liga". Spurs have placed a €70 million (£59m/$79m) price tag on the Argentine international, with Simeone reported to have already had talks with the player.

The 27-year-old is currently enjoying his vacation after helping Spurs win the Europa League last month. He will return to action for pre-season with Spurs next season, with his future clearly up in the air.