Transfer: ‘He’s got quality’ – Man United told to hijack Chelsea, Arsenal move for Romero

Former Sunderland left-back, Micky Gray, has urged Manchester United to outmaneuver Chelsea and Arsenal in signing Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero this summer.

The Argentine international is seeking a transfer, having become disenchanted with his situation at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

In a discussion on talkSPORT, Gray acknowledged that while Romero has certain shortcomings both personally and professionally, he would welcome him at Manchester United without hesitation. He emphasized that the chance to reunite him with Lisandro Martinez is an opportunity the club should not overlook.

He said, “I would take him to Man United in a heartbeat. Just because Romero had a fall-out at Tottenham and he wasn’t happy. I think he even kicked up a fuss about certain signings or non-signings coming to Tottenham, didn’t he? I don’t think that’s one thing that frustrated him.

“However, the opportunity to pair (Lisandro) Martinez and Romero again, regardless of personal opinions about them, is something you can count on. With Michael and his coaching staff, I wouldn’t say nurture is the right term, but if they can just help him find some composure, there’s no doubt he possesses quality. He’s an excellent centre-half.

“Whether Manchester United are looking to strengthen that position or not remains uncertain, as they have (Ayden) Heaven, (Leny) Yoro, and other younger centre-backs emerging,” he stated.

Romero has made the decision to leave Tottenham Hotspur and has been linked with both Chelsea and Arsenal. Spurs are currently negotiating with Serie A champions Inter Milan regarding a deal for the centre-back, who received two red cards during the 2025-26 Premier League season.

Chelsea have signed Maxence Lacroix for £52 million and may be hesitant to invest in additional centre-backs this summer.

Conversely, Arsenal have yet to approach the Argentine defender as they seek to fill the gap left by the injured William Saliba.

Manchester United have five senior centre-backs on their books, and Michael Carrick will be wary about adding more to that number. With the UEFA Champions League to come this season, however, they need a reasonably big squad to compete on multiple fronts.