Chelsea midfielder Valentin Barco has identified Cristian Romero as the player he would love to see join the Blues.

According to a report by The Chelsea Chronicle on Thursday, 5 November 2026, Barco named his Argentina teammate when asked which signing he would recommend to Chelsea's owners.

The midfielder has shared the pitch with several top players in Argentina's national team, including Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez. However, Romero is the defender he would particularly like to play alongside at club level.

Romero left Tottenham Hotspur for Atletico Madrid during the summer after attracting interest from several European clubs.

The 28-year-old endured a difficult record against Chelsea during his time in England, winning just one of eight meetings with the Blues. He lost six and drew one, while also receiving a red card against them.

Chelsea were reportedly interested in signing the Argentina international before his move to Spain.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the Blues faced competition from Inter Milan, Barcelona and Arsenal.

However, Chelsea eventually signed Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a reported £52 million deal as they looked to strengthen their defence.

Lacroix's current injury situation has since created another problem for head coach Xabi Alonso, with the defender expected to miss the remainder of 2026.

Romero could have provided valuable experience and additional quality at the back, although negotiating a deal for Tottenham's captain would have been difficult given the rivalry between both London clubs.

Relations between Chelsea and Tottenham have improved slightly, with the north London side signing Tosin Adarabioyo and taking Mykhailo Mudryk on loan.

Barco's choice highlights Romero's reputation among Argentina's international players and the type of defensive quality Chelsea could benefit from as Alonso continues to strengthen his squad.