Franco Romero Parts Ways With Sporting Cristal and Eyes Return to Uruguay

Franco Romero will not be continuing with Sporting Cristal. The Uruguayan defender confirmed in an interview with Carve Deportiva that his contract expires on June 30 and talks over a renewal fell through. Romero, who joined the Peruvian side midway through last season to replace Brazilian Ignacio da Silva, said the decision to leave was ultimately his.

“We didn’t reach an agreement, so everything just fell apart,” he explained. “It was my own decision not to continue with Sporting Cristal. Now I’m looking to return to Uruguay and see what options are available.”

As reported by El Comercio, Romero's departure is part of a broader squad reshuffle as Cristal aims to contend for the Torneo Clausura title in the Liga 1. The club is looking to reinforce its defense, and one name that has surfaced is Miguel Araujo. The former Alianza Lima center-back is reportedly on the club's radar, with developments expected soon.

Romero’s exit leaves a void in the back line that Cristal must address promptly. The team is aiming to bounce back from an inconsistent first half of the season, and filling that defensive gap will be crucial in its bid for the national championship.