Arsenal are reportedly considering a sensational move for an experienced Tottenham player, a transfer that would become the first direct deal between the North London rivals in almost 50 years.
After missing out on Vinicius Junior, who committed his future to Real Madrid by signing a new six-year contract, Mikel Arteta’s side have turned their attention to other transfer options as they continue to strengthen the squad.
With William Saliba expected to be sidelined for the opening months of the season following back surgery, Arsenal are eager to bring in another centre-back. Gabriel Magalhães and Cristhian Mosquera are expected to form the main defensive partnership, while Piero Hincapié and Jurrien Timber provide additional depth.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Arsenal have made initial contact over Tottenham captain Cristian Romero. However, Spurs are said to have no intention of selling one of their star players to a direct Premier League rival and would instead favour a move overseas.
Romero has also been linked with Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan, with Atletico currently leading the race. Inter’s interest has reportedly cooled as they focus on other transfer priorities.
Romano added that Arsenal’s approach was mainly to gather information from Romero’s representatives, but stressed that reaching an agreement with Tottenham would be extremely challenging because of the intense rivalry between the clubs.
If moves to Atletico Madrid or Inter Milan fail to materialise, Arsenal could revisit their interest before the transfer window closes.
The most famous player to leave Tottenham for Arsenal remains Sol Campbell, who joined the Gunners on a free transfer in 2001. However, the last player to complete a direct transfer between the two clubs was Pat Jennings, who moved from Tottenham to Arsenal in 1977.
