Cristian Romero in demand! Atletico to battle Real Madrid as Tottenham defender becomes Diego Simeone's ‘top priority’ ahead of the Club World Cup

La Liga giants Real Madrid have already been linked with a move for Romero this summer but will face strong competition from Atletico, according to Eduardo Burgos of AS. Los Colchoneros are "speeding up a move" for the defender and have made him the club's "top priority" before the Club World Cup. Romero is said be tempted by the idea of moving to Madrid but Atletico are expected to find negotiations with Tottenham tricky.

Romero has a contract with Tottenham until 2027 and it's been reported previously that Spurs would demand a fee of £60 million ($77m) for the Argentina international. Yet a move to Atletico may well appeal for the 26-year-old as it would see him work under compatriot Simeone as well as fellow Argentine team-mates such as Julian Alvarez, Rodrigo De Paul, Giuliano Simeone and Nahuel Molina.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano says a move is possible but convincing Spurs to part ways with Romero will be tough. He told GiveMeSport: "It's a possibility but not something guaranteed as it depends on Daniel Levy, and we know how strong Spurs are in negotiations. So it's something possible, definitely; but it has to be an important financial package or Levy won't accept anything."

Romero has already spoken of his frustrations at Tottenham this season and how Spurs end the campaign may well prove to be a key factor in his plans for the future. Ange Postecoglou's side currently sit down in 14th place in the Premier League table and take on Chelsea next in the Premier League on Thursday.