Tottenham Star Open to Arsenal Move as Spurs’ Resolve Tested

According to transfer reporter Ekrem Konur, Tottenham Hotspur center-back Cristian Romero would be receptive to a summer switch to North London rivals Arsenal.

The Gunners are actively searching for defensive cover after William Saliba sustained a severe back injury while playing for France during the 2026 World Cup, sidelining him for the long term.

With Saliba unavailable, Mikel Arteta faces a shortage of central defensive choices as Arsenal attempt to retain their Premier League crown.

Cristian Romero receptive to Arsenal transfer

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - JANUARY 07: Cristian Romero of Tottenham Hotspur warms up prior to the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Tottenham Hotspur at Vitality Stadium on January 07, 2026 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Spurs defender Cristian Romero (Image credit: Getty Images)

It appears that Romero has informed the Spurs hierarchy of his desire to depart before the current transfer market shuts.

A switch to the Emirates would keep the 28-year-old Argentina international in the capital, giving him the chance to play Champions League football under the reigning English titleholders.

Mikel Arteta

Mikel Arteta has claimed the Premier League title, but now targets European glory in the Champions League once more (Image credit: Getty Images)

Nonetheless, decision-makers at Tottenham would naturally hesitate to sanction the sale of a key squad member to their fierce local neighbors, despite his departure being anticipated for a while.

The Tottenham board would heavily favor sending him to a foreign league, particularly with Spanish outfit Atletico Madrid having previously shown interest in securing his services.

Should Arsenal submit an official bid, it is bound to provoke strong backlash from both sets of fans.

As far as Spurs are concerned, greenlighting a transfer to Arsenal would outrage the fanbase, given the taboo of bolstering a direct competitor and the sensitive history of moves across North London.

Furthermore, several Arsenal supporters harbor doubts about signing Romero. His spotty disciplinary history in the top flight, coupled with his antics alongside the Argentina squad in their latest World Cup tournament, has made him a controversial figure among many English football followers.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 14: William Saliba #17 of France walks off the pitch with medical staff after sustaining an injury during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match between France and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 14, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

A back issue is set to keep William Saliba out of action for a significant period (Image credit: Getty Images)

From FourFourTwo‘s perspective, Romero making the move to Arsenal would undoubtedly cause a massive uproar.

Such a deal might evoke memories of Sol Campbell’s infamous 2001 crossing of the divide, along with all the intense animosity that landmark transfer generated.