Zanetti praises Romero but Inter-Tottenham deal ‘not easy’

Inter vice-president Javier Zanetti praises Tottenham defender Cristian Romero but admits it’s ‘not easy’ for the Nerazzurri to secure a deal for the Argentine centre-back.

Zanetti spoke to TyC Sports in Argentina following a 4-1 win over Brazil.

Inter striker Lautaro Martinez could not take part in the latest international games with his national team as he returned to Milan with a muscle injury.

“He deeply feels his commitment to the Argentine team, and it’s heavy for him not to be here. Injuries are part of the job,” Zanetti said.

“It happened to Lauti, but fortunately, it’s not as serious as initially seemed. The goal is to recover him for the final part of the season, which will be intense for us.”

Zanetti praises Romero but Inter-Tottenham deal ‘not easy’

Argentinean reporters joked on whether Lautaro ever asked Zanetti to bring his compatriot ‘Cuti’ Romero to San Siro.

“It’s not easy because we are talking about very expensive players,” Zanetti replied, smiling.

“The club’s sustainability is a challenge for everyone and a fundamental aspect.

“Romero is a complete defender. I was saying before the interview that Argentina can rely on a defender who knows how to play, who marks well, is focused and is a leader. I really like him a lot. He’s one of those old-school, complete defenders. He has proved to be a key player for Argentina.”

Another Argentine striker, Bologna’s Santiago Castro, has been heavily linked with a move to Inter.

“Santi Castro is doing well at Bologna. It’s beyond the goals he scores; he is always involved in every game he plays,” Zanetti argued.

“Right now he is at Bologna but I think that great talents will always be on the best club of the world’s radars.”

Inter are the only Serie A club still involved in three competitions this season. They are Serie A leaders and have qualified for the Coppa Campioni quarter-finals and the Coppa Italia semis.

“We are in first place, but Napoli are just three points behind, Atalanta six,” Zanetti said.

“There are still nine matches to go. Many challenges are ahead; we hope to finish the season with a great accomplishment.”

Winning the Coppa Campioni is one of Inter’s big targets this season especially after reaching the Final only two years ago.

“We really hope this is our moment. We know the Coppa Campioni is a tough competition,” admitted Zanetti.

“We’ll face Bayern, a club with a big tradition and strong players. I expect two balanced games.”