Exclusive: Cristian Romero has now expressed one key concern behind the scenes at Tottenham
Today at 09:15 AM
Exclusive with Graeme Bailey
Tottenham Hotspur have been trying to get Cristian Romero to sign a new contract for a little while.
Tottenham have been looking to start conversations about Romero's contract recently, but, as of yet, there has been little progress on that front.
This comes after Real Madrid were strongly linked with a move for the centre-back.
Talks are yet to start, but Spurs are now actively trying to get Romero to the negotiating table to discuss a new deal.
However, the World Cup winner does have one big concern at Tottenham that may need addressing before he signs a new contract.
Cristian Romero has raised a concern at Tottenham
TBR Football understands that Tottenham Hotspur are looking to sit down with Cristian Romero in the coming months to discuss a new contract as they have become aware of increasing interest in the Argentine.
We are told that Romero, whilst happy at Spurs, is concerned by their lack of Champions League football and that worry has been expressed during talks over the last six months.
Sources have confirmed to TBR Football that Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan are keeping close tabs on Romero's situation, and they are clubs who can all offer regular Champions League football.
Tottenham do have Champions League football firmly part of their plans, and that has been made clear, but whether they can deliver that is a worry to everyone connected with the club.
Whilst financial concerns are obvious, the fact is they could lose some of their star players due to a lack of top level football on offer.
Romero for his part has only tasted Champions League football once in Tottenham colours since arriving. He saw as much action in Europe's top competition with Atalanta – where he spent one season – as he has during his time North London.
TBR Football understands that Tottenham, during initial talks, have indicated to Romero that he would be getting a deal that would put him on par with Europe's top defenders.
Romero's current deal is due to expire in 2027 and a new deal would see that extended to 2030 – should Romero agree to terms.
Are Tottenham going to qualify for the Champions League?
Tottenham, as ever, have aspirations of qualifying for the Champions League next season, but whether or not that is possible remains to be seen.
As things stand, Spurs are firmly in mid-table in the Premier League, and after recent losses to the likes of Brighton and Crystal Palace, Ange Postecoglou's side don't look likely to make a top four push.
TABLE
Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool all look shoo-ins for a place in the top four this season, while Spurs, Aston Villa, Chelsea and even Brighton and Newcastle will be battling it out for that final spot.
Rio Ferdinand didn't include Tottenham when he made his top four prediction at the start of the season, but Harry Redknapp did tip Spurs to finish fourth recently.
Champions League qualification will be vital this season if Spurs want to keep their key players, and with Romero making it clear behind-the-scenes that he wants top-level European football, Tottenham need to push on.
Luckily for Spurs, a top-four finish isn't their only route into the Champions League next season. If English teams perform well in Europe, a fifth-placed finish will be enough to qualify next year, while Spurs could also book a Champions League spot if they can win the Europa League.
Spurs have had a slow start to the season, but it may be too soon to worry about missing out on the Champions League in 2025/26.
