According to a report by Football London on Thursday, November 5, 2026, Chelsea midfielder Valentin Barco has identified Argentina teammate Cristian Romero as a player he would like to see join the club. His suggestion follows previous links between the defender and Stamford Bridge.

Barco has shared the international stage with leading Argentine players, including Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez. He would welcome the chance to play alongside another national teammate regularly at club level. The two Argentines know each other through their international commitments with the national side.

During an interview with journalist Gaston Edul on his YouTube channel, Barco was asked which footballer he would recommend if Chelsea's owners allowed him to choose a signing. He answered: "Cuti."

The nickname refers to Romero, the 28-year-old defender who recently moved from Tottenham Hotspur to Atletico Madrid. The centre-back spent several seasons in English football, facing Chelsea on multiple occasions.

Romero's record against the Blues was difficult, with one victory, six defeats and one draw in eight meetings. He was also sent off during one appearance against Chelsea while playing for Tottenham.

Despite that record, former Manchester United defender Gary Neville questioned Chelsea's decision not to pursue Romero when the club sought defensive reinforcements during the summer transfer window.

Chelsea instead signed Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a deal reportedly worth £52 million. However, the French defender has suffered an injury expected to keep him out for the remainder of 2026.

Romero attracted interest from several European clubs before choosing Atletico Madrid. Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport reported that Chelsea, Inter Milan, Barcelona and Arsenal were among the sides monitoring his situation.

A potential transfer from Tottenham to Chelsea would have been complicated by the rivalry between the London clubs. Although relations have improved through recent player movements, a direct deal involving Tottenham's captain would have carried particular significance.

Barco's comment does not indicate that Chelsea are preparing a fresh move for Romero. It highlights the midfielder's preference for a teammate he admires, while the defender has already begun a new chapter in Spain with Atletico Madrid.