Pundit thrilled by Cristian Romero ‘transformation’ as £41m Tottenham deal imminent
Noel Whelan has insisted Tottenham agreeing the £41million purchase of centre-back Cristian Romero is “an absolute snip”.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 24-year-old has “transformed the fortunes” of the Spurs defence since his arrival last summer (2021).
According to The Telegraph (12 August), Romero is set to become a permanent Tottenham player with Antonio Conte’s side set to trigger his £41million purchase option.
The report claims Spurs have until the end of this month to complete the signing.
Romero made 22 Premier League appearances last season and was instrumental as Tottenham qualified for the Champions League.
The Argentina international has already agreed a contract which will keep him at the club until June 2027.
Whelan compared the £41million fee to other centre-backs on the move throughout Europe.
“It’s huge, a massive deal,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He’s an international, he’s a leader – and he’s proved he can handle the Premier League.
“He has absolutely transformed their fortunes at the back since coming in, and he’s just growing more and more into that role for Tottenham.
“For £41million – it’s an absolute snip. Especially when you look at what other centre-backs are going for – and seeing clubs holding people to ransom.
“It’s a real bargain.”
Dejan Kulusevski is also mid-way through a multi-season loan at Tottenham.
Spurs can reportedly secure the impressive Sweden international’s permanent signing for a further fee of just £25million.
In other news, Football Insider updates as Tottenham sensation axed after rejecting new contract.