Tottenham ‘offer’ Cristian Romero to Barcelona in exchange for Raphinha

Tottenham are reportedly readying an offer for Barcelona star Raphinha - and are prepared to throw in an important player to tempt them.

Spurs have started magnificently in the Premier League under new boss Ange Postecoglou, even going top of the table and going unbeaten in ten games.

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However, they experienced two defeats in a row against Chelsea and Wolves in their most recent outings, which has badly exposed their lack of squad depth.

Postecoglou is helping to rectify the issue in the January transfer window and has eyed Raphinha for a potential arrival.

And he is prepared to offer key star Cristian Romero as part of the deal to take the Brazilian, according to Spanish outlet Sport.

Barcelona's financial problems, which have long haunted them, are forcing them to the negotiation table.

They are still demanding a hefty fee for Raphinha, though, who only joined from Leeds last year.

The Blaugrana have slapped a £61million price-tag on the winger, a year after leaving Elland Road for £50m.

It is a fee that Tottenham are not ready to meet but are ready to offer a player as a makeweight.

And that player is Romero, who has been on Barcelona's radar since he was at Atalanta.

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Signing a defender is also one of Xavi's priorities with Andreas Christensen drifting out of form.

The emergence of Lamine Yamal has also made Barcelona consider axing Raphinha, who has had dips in form himself.

At just 16, the Spaniard has become a sensation with club and country this season.

Raphinha, meanwhile, has scored just twice this season in all competitions.