Barcelona’s hopes of signing Cristian Romero have suffered a final setback after the Tottenham Hotspur defender decided not to wait for the Catalan club to make a move, reports SPORT.

It is known that Romero has informed Tottenham that he wants to leave this summer and is now actively exploring other options, with Inter Milan emerging as the most advanced destination.

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While Barcelona continue to admire the Argentine international, their inability to create room in the squad has left them watching developments from a distance.

The situation means one of Deco’s preferred defensive targets could soon be off the market.

Barcelona’s interest never disappeared

Barcelona have been open to strengthening the heart of their defence if the right opportunity presents itself before the transfer window closes.

Cristian Romero will not wait for Barcelona any longer. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

The club is looking for an experienced centre-back capable of adding leadership and quality to Hansi Flick’s squad, with Cristian Romero and Aymeric Laporte identified as two of the standout options.

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It has been stated that Romero’s representatives previously held discussions with Barcelona, and the Argentine was viewed as one of Deco’s preferred candidates, even ahead of Alessandro Bastoni.

However, the Blaugrana have always maintained that any move would depend on departures.

Without generating salary space and transfer income, Barcelona have been unable to progress negotiations.

Romero no longer willing to wait

Cristian Romero has decided to join Inter Milan. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

That delay has prompted Romero to look elsewhere, with the 27-year-old having informed Tottenham of his desire to leave following a difficult campaign in north London.

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With Barcelona unable to move, Romero’s entourage have accelerated talks with Inter Milan.

His agent, Ciro Palermo, is in Italy discussing the framework of a potential deal.

While Tottenham’s €50 million asking price remains a significant obstacle, Inter are exploring alternative formulas, including a loan with an obligation to buy.