Manchester United have reportedly entered the race to secure Tottenham skipper Cristian Romero ahead of the upcoming transfer window, according to Spanish media outlets.
The Argentina international's future at the North London club appears increasingly uncertain following his public criticism of the club's leadership structure earlier in the campaign.
Atletico Madrid previously pursued the defender's signature last year but balked at Tottenham's €55 million (£47m) valuation.
Spanish publication Marca reports that Los Colchoneros remain keen on the centre-back and are preparing to table a fresh offer when the transfer window reopens.
The report indicates that Real Madrid have also identified Romero as a potential defensive reinforcement, though Manchester United's emerging interest in the 27-year-old could significantly complicate Atletico's pursuit.
Romero's contract reportedly contains a release mechanism that would permit a transfer to Atletico, Real Madrid or Barcelona should any club meet the €60m (£51.9m) threshold this summer.
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Ahead of Atletico's Champions League elimination of Spurs earlier this month, Diego Simeone offered effusive praise for the Tottenham captain's qualities.
'Speaking as an Argentina supporter, I deeply respect his mentality, his competitive spirit, his defensive capabilities and his technical proficiency in possession,' Simeone stated.
'While I've watched him represent the national team more frequently than his club, I hold him in exceptionally high regard.'
Addressing speculation surrounding his future following Spurs' Champions League elimination, Romero remained diplomatically focused on immediate priorities.
'Right now, my attention is entirely on our current circumstances,' he explained.
'I maintain tremendous respect and genuine fondness for this club, and my objective is to conclude the season on the strongest possible note. What comes after that remains to be determined, but the priority at this moment is recuperating and regrouping.'
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