Cristian Romero remains committed to joining Barcelona and has delayed finalizing a move to Inter Milan, holding out for a last offer from the Catalan club.
According to Spanish media, Romero's representatives have kept lines of communication open with Barcelona's sporting management, hoping that late-window business might reshape the team's defense.
Romero is on Barcelona's target list, but the club has made it clear they will not sign him unless one of their current defenders or full-backs leaves first, with Araujo or Kounde the most likely candidates.
Inter Milan met with Romero's agent and offered a four-year contract with a salary slightly lower than his current wage at Tottenham but extended length. However, talks stalled on the player's side, and no agreement has been reached on the transfer fee, with Tottenham demanding €50 million despite a willingness to negotiate.
Tottenham is prepared to let the Argentine defender leave, even considering a loan deal with an option to buy if Romero insists on moving.
Romero's clear desire to wait for Barcelona is also reinforced by interest shown by sporting director Deco. Meanwhile, Inter have agreed terms with Manchester City defender John Stones, who could join if the club sells Pavard this window.
Barcelona is looking at two options to overhaul their defense: signing a top-class defender if one player departs or pursuing a young left-footed player with potential.
The Salinas deal remains on the table, but Barcelona refuses to pay the €16 million requested by Racing.
Romero is willing to take a pay cut to ease registration at Barcelona. Time may be on the club's side since Tottenham needs to reduce its squad, and Romero is due back for training on August 10.
