Tottenham Hotspur are still waiting to sanction the sale of their captain, Cristian Romero, this summer.
After signing a contract extension amid interest from Spain last year, Romero embarked on a torrid season as skipper. A knee injury brought his campaign to a premature close, but he was back to full fitness in time for the World Cup.
For Spurs, that was crucial. Romero's market was thin at the start of the summer, so he was in the shop window in North America.
He was bothered by his knee early on, then Romero played a pivotal role in a flawed Argentina team reaching the final. The centre-back scored in the dramatic comeback victory over Egypt in the last-16, and was outstanding in the emotionally taxing triumph over historic rivals England in the semis.
Romero had been brilliant in the final until another injury forced him to withdraw in the second half, and Spain subsequently claimed victory in extra time.
Now, suitors have re-emerged. Diego Simeone wants him at Atlético Madrid.
Atlético Madrid a step closer to signing Cristian Romero
Atléti chased Romero last summer, but had seemingly cooled their interest before the World Cup. Their stance has shifted once more, with Simeone making the signing of his compatriot a priority.
However, to properly pursue Spurs' captain, Atléti need to make sales. That's where Aston Villa come into play.
The Athletic reported earlier this week that they were interested in Atléti left-back Matteo Ruggeri, and Marca understands that Villa have reached an agreement with Los Rojiblancos worth €24m.
If that's the case, Atléti are a step closer to signing Romero.
Inter Milan are currently leading the race, with €40m verbal agreement reached with Spurs. However, the Nerazzurri haven't yet agreed to personal terms with the defender. Romero is perhaps waiting for Atléti, given his confession last year about wanting to play in Spain.
Fabrizio Romano notes that Atléti's opening bid will arrive after the sales of Nahuel Molina and Ruggeri are complete, and said offer will "be in line" with Inter's €40m proposal.
A move to the Spanish capital has always made sense for Romero, but it's remarkable that we're going to earn such a small fee for him. He has several years left on his contract and was superb at the World Cup. Leeds United have signed Sassuolo's Tarik Muharemović for a similar price this summer.
Spurs, ultimately, have no leverage, and buying clubs no that. We've shown our hand, and Romero has made his intentions clear. If we are to part ways, we're going to have to accept a discounted fee.
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