There are conflicting reports on Atalanta defender Cristian Romero, as Sportitalia maintain Barcelona’s original proposal was rejected, while both they and Tottenham Hotspur are expected to raise their bids.
Sky Sport Italia transfer expert Fabrizio Romano stated today that Spurs would not reach the €55m asking price and decided to take a break from the bidding war.
Spanish sources also maintain Barcelona are only prepared to go for a loan deal, as they are struggling financially.
However, Sportitalia pundit Gianluigi Longari – the first to mention both Tottenham and Barcelona interest in Romero – insists the story is far from over.
He maintains Barcelona’s first proposal included a player exchange, but was rejected by Atalanta.
They are preparing another bid that will be a loan with obligation to buy, allowing them to spread the cost of the operation.
Tottenham’s bid had reached circa €45m and director Fabio Paratici is likely to raise it further.