Cristian Romero to Inter transfer rather unsurprisingly emphasises a significant fall from grace
“Cuti” Romero has been heavily linked with a move to Inter Milan this summer, with negotiations believed to be advanced but mired with elements such as a less-than-fabulous fee and detailed negotiations over salary.
Indeed, anyone espousing what a top-notch player he is and how valuable an asset the Italian is might want to consider how much reputational damage he is currently encountering.
I have seen fans online bemoaning his departure, demanding astronomical fees, but the sad reality is that he looks set to slope away from Tottenham under somewhat of a cloud, as opposed to being snapped up like the sought-after superstar he might have been.
Everything about this exit smacks of a tarnished atmosphere.
Tottenham are open to selling. Spurs’ valuation started around €50m and has only been negotiated down, with reports of an agreement in principle or near-agreement around €40–45 million. This could even be a loan with an obligation to buy.
Accusations of excessive demands
Sportsmediaset say that his camp’s demands are “excessive” according to Inter sources. Figures mentioned include seeking in the region of €6.5/8 million net per season, keeping him on par with what he’s been getting in N17.
The suggestion is that Inter have been reluctant to go that high and have offered around €5m net or slightly more, potentially with a longer contract and bonuses.
It’s not quite squabbling, but the optics are hardly swathed in glory.
Personal terms remain the hurdle, though some sources noted progress or a possible lowering of demands, and another factor is that Inter recently signed John Stones on a free transfer, which reduces their centre-back urgency.
No transfer has been finalised, despite Fabrizio Romano dropping his “No way back” comment over a week ago.
Negotiations continue and could still progress or collapse depending on what compromises are made.
Romero transfer stinks of compromises
That’s the word: ‘compromise’. One doesn’t haggle for world-class things. If you want the best, then the opportunity to secure it is part of the attraction.
Cuti looks rather hoist by his own petard; not a great Tottenham captain, and now a World Cup loser.
Romero’s departure from Haringey won't be to some great fanfare; rather, merely to a modest click of a door closing behind him.
Tottenham don’t want him and the much-anticipated queue of suitors is thinner than previously advertised, and that’s a shame.
