Tottenham Hotspur must prepare for the eventual departure of defender Cristian Romero, who is attracting serious interest from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid.
The Argentine defender is keen on leaving North London for an adventure in sunny Spain.
Spurs set a high price for Romero, but Los Colchenoros are so desperate for the 27-year-old that they are ready to match it.
Tottenham need a replacement for Romero. They are reportedly lining one up from Serie A this summer.
Per talkSPORT, ‘Tottenham are among the clubs showing an interest in Genoa centre-back Koni De Winter.’
The 23-year-old impressed in Serie A this term, helping Genoa finish in 13th place, winning 76 out of 110 aerial duels (69.1%) while helping to keep seven clean sheets in 25 appearances.
His showings caught the eye of several suitors, including Spurs. Genoa value the Belgian international at £21.5 million.
The report claims, ‘Spurs have earmarked De Winter as a potential summer replacement for Romero.’
De Winter has been highly touted since he broke into the Juventus first team from the academy, earning praise from legendary centre-back Leonardo Bonucci for a remarkable debut.
The veteran defender said (via Old Juve), “Koni had a good game. He played with personality. We had already seen him in London against Chelsea. He has no fear.”
According to Opta, De Winter recorded 33 blocks and 25 interceptions in 2133 minutes this term. He also won possession 114 times, made seven blocks and 112 clearances.
Tottenham have been on his trail for some time now, which means there must be some seriousness around the interest in his services.
Spurs also have a relationship with Genoa, having signed Radu Dragusin from the Serie A club.
The Romanian defender has underwhelmed in England, but that has not stopped Spurs from returning to Genoa for De Winter.
(Stats from Opta and Sofascore)