Inter's surprise pre-season star could be the key to Romero signing

Inter are still hoping to seal a deal with Tottenham Hotspur for centre-back Cristian Romero, but the club’s pursuit of the Argentina international has only become possible due to the surprisingly impressive performances from Andy Diouf in the early stages of pre-season.

Is Diouf the reason Inter are able to target Romero?

It hasn’t exactly been an explosive start to the summer transfer window for the Nerazzurri. The summer began with the purchase of Aleksandar Stankovic, who was brought back from Club Brugge after an impressive breakthrough campaign in 2025-26.

Ivan Provedel has also come in at a cost of €3m to provide cover for Josep Martinez, who is expected to become the new no.1 in 2026-27.

As things stand, that has been it in terms of incomings.

Marco Palestra has completed his transfer to Chelsea from Atalanta (chelseafc.com)

Inter had originally been hoping to bring in Marco Palestra from Atalanta to replace right wing-back Denzel Dumfries, who left the club after seeing his release clause activated by Real Madrid. However, Inter were ultimately outpriced by Chelsea , who secured the young Italy international’s services at a cost of €60m.

Inter had briefly considered reinvesting the money they had set aside to sign Palestra on Nico Paz instead, but he has since firmed up his immediate future with Como instead.

Then, Inter reached an agreement with Union Saint-Gilloise for Israeli right-winger Anan Khalaili, but that deal later collapsed due to concerns around the player’s medical.

The search for a new right wing-back took the Nerazzurri to North London, where they attempted to negotiate with Tottenham for England international Djed Spence. Cristian Chivu’s side reportedly went off the idea after learning Tottenham’s asking price.

However, negotiations with Tottenham have since continued, albeit for Argentine centre-back Romero rather than right wing-back Spence.

SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND – APRIL 12: Cristian Romero of Tottenham Hotspur is seen crying during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Tottenham Hotspur at Stadium of Light on April 12, 2026 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Tottenham are demanding a fee in the region of €50m for the former Juventus, Atalanta and Genoa defender, who is not expected to be part of Roberto De Zerbi’s plans for the 2026-27 season.