Manchester United's Centre-Back Conundrum
Manchester United are keen to bolster their options this summer, with Champions League football returning to Old Trafford this season. This means Michael Carrick will need a bigger squad to rotate, and Scholes has surprisingly called for Romero to be a quality addition for United if they are to be competitive.
Romero's Disciplinary Record
Cristian Romero has been sent off twice in 23 league appearances for Tottenham last term, and was also booked ten times in the Premier League. However, Scholes believes his fiery streak can be channelled positively. "I actually think he'll go to Atletico Madrid, but, you know, talk about 'mavericks'?" Scholes said. "And I know he's a centre half, but do you know what I mean? He's got that bit of an idiot about him."
A Cult Hero in the Making?
Scholes believes Romero could become a cult hero at Old Trafford, despite his disciplinary issues. "I just think he could become a bit of a cult hero type," he said. Romero has formed a formidable centre-back partnership with United's Lisandro Martinez for Argentina, and Scholes thinks he could provide experience alongside United's youthful other options, including the 19-year-old Ayden Heaven.
Atletico Madrid's Advantage
Atletico Madrid have stolen a march on Napoli after they previously agreed a £34million deal to sign Romero. Romero has already agreed personal terms with Atletico, and it's understood Spurs could make a loss on the £43m they paid Atalanta to sign him in 2021. However, Scholes believes United could still make a late play for the centre-back. "This is one you might laugh at - Cristian Romero from Tottenham," Scholes said. "I know he's a nutter. I know he's got disciplinary issues. But I just think he can be a very good centre-half and I think someone like Michael (Carrick) could really calm him down."