Tottenham Hotspur target Cristian Romero has been labelled as "one of the most exciting centre-backs in the world" by Forza Italian Football editor Conor Clancy.

Spurs head coach Nuno Espirito Santo, who was appointed last month, is looking to bolster his defensive options after seeing the club finish seventh in the Premier League last season.

Centre-half Toby Alderweireld has ended his six-year stay in north London by joining Qatar's Al-Duhail earlier this week.

Romero, who is currently with Italian side Atalanta, has been touted as a potential replacement for the Belgium international.

Having won the Copa America with Argentina earlier this month, Romero has been sprung into the limelight and, according to Sportitalia, Spurs are now facing competition. The report suggests Spanish giants Barcelona are also keeping tabs on the central defender's availability.

The 23-year-old made 42 appearances last season and, despite being at the heart of Atalanta's defence, registered three goals and five assists.

Serie A expert Clancy believes Spurs would have secured one of the world's leading defenders if they manage to get a deal over the line.

Speaking exclusively to The Transfer Tavern, he said: "Romero was brilliant last season. If Spurs can get him and have the patience to let him make a couple of mistakes early on, they've got one of the most exciting centre-backs in the world.

"I don't think I could rate him any more highly than I do, to be honest. He is brilliant."