Barcelona are targeting a new centre-back during this summer's transfer window after their defensive options were stretched to the limit last season by departures, injuries and suspensions.
It's difficult to argue with strengthening that area. At times last season, Barcelona were left with just three senior options, Pau Cubarsí, Eric García and Gerard Martín. Ronald Araújo was unavailable during his mental health crisis, while injuries to the club's full-backs forced further reshuffles across the back line, exposing the lack of depth in central defence.
Alessandro Bastoni was heavily linked with a move to Camp Nou, while Micky van de Ven, Luka Vušković and Jakub Kiwior have all featured prominently in the rumour mill over recent months. Those links have cooled somewhat during the Club World Cup, but one name is now beginning to gather serious momentum.
It's a rumour that, if it comes to fruition, is unlikely to be met with much enthusiasm by Barcelona supporters, myself included.
New CB rumour
According to Mundo Deportivo, that man is Cristian Romero. The report claims Tottenham are willing to part ways with the Argentine this summer, while the defender himself is keen on a move to La Liga. As things stand, Barcelona and Atlético Madrid are believed to be the two clubs leading the chase for the World Cup defender.
The Argentine is undoubtedly an excellent defender on his day, but he does not feel like the right fit for Barcelona at this current stage. His disciplinary record should immediately raise concerns, with the Argentine regularly picking up needless yellow and red cards through rash challenges in the Premier League with Tottenham, with a poor disciplinary record showing a lack of leadership. For a side that dominates possession and cannot afford unnecessary suspensions, that is a significant risk.
There are also question marks over whether Romero has the pace to thrive in Barcelona's aggressive high line. Unlike Tottenham, Barça ask their defenders to defend huge spaces in behind, and recovery speed is essential, we have seen that in his poor Spurs defensive record. He is often getting drawn to the ball, leaving huge holes behind the back line.
More importantly, Barcelona's priority should be a naturally left-sided centre-back. Pau Cubarsí and Eric García are both more comfortable on the right, leaving an obvious imbalance in Hansi Flick's defence. Spending big on another right-footed defender makes little sense.
Not to forget the outrage he caused in the white half of North London. His apparent willingness to return to Argentina while Tottenham were battling to avoid relegation on the final day also raises questions about his commitment to his job and the club when they needed him the most.
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