Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race to prise highly-rated centre-back Cristian Romero away from the Serie A this summer.
The 23-year-old Argentine, who is halfway through a two-year loan spell at Atalanta from Juventus, has earned rave reviews in Italy - with Spanish giants Barcelona said to be keeping tabs, too.
But Romero, who was voted the best defender in the Italian top flight last season, is said to be open to a move to England - leaving United and Spurs as the frontrunners to scrap over his signature this summer.
However, it is said that the Red Devils' good relations with Atalanta could swing the deal in their favour, especially after signing teenage sensation Amad Diallo from the club for £37m in January.
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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is said to be keen on securing the perfect long-term defensive partner for club captain Harry Maguire.
And even though Raphael Varane seems to be closing in on a switch to Old Trafford, another centre-half may well be needed as back-up, with Romero fitting just that bill.
On Tuesday afternoon, Sportitalia journalist Gianluigi Longari claimed that United will have competition in Tottenham and Barcelona, who have already made an enquiry for the centre-back.
Slowly but steadily establishing himself as a dominant defender in world football, Romero recently starred for Argentina at the Copa America where he featured three times - including in the 1-0 final triumph against Brazil.
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As a result of his stellar form, Atalanta are said to be keen to activate his £13.6m option to buy clause a year ahead of schedule.
And in a shrewd move, the Italian outfit could then look to then offload him for a heavy profit as competition for his signature hots up, according to Calciomercato.
The Italian publication states that the 23-year-old could be sold for a £39m fee, with any deal to potentially rise to £51m with add-ons. How's that for business?
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United
