Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero is reportedly poised for a summer departure, with strong links to Spanish giants Atletico Madrid.
The 27-year-old centre-back is currently focused on helping Spurs finish the season on a high, with a crucial UEFA Europa League semi-final second leg against Bodo/Glimt looming this week. Tottenham hold a commanding 3-0 lead ahead of Thursday’s trip to Norway.
Despite that, speculation over Romero’s future is intensifying. The Argentine defender, who joined Spurs from Atalanta in 2021, has previously expressed his desire to play in La Liga — a statement that has only fuelled transfer rumours as the summer window approaches.
According to Spanish journalist Ruben Uria, Romero has agreed in principle to a five-year contract with Atletico Madrid. Spanish outlet AS adds that the defender is set to push for a move once Tottenham’s European campaign concludes. Atletico, currently third in La Liga and on course for Champions League qualification, is an attractive destination for the World Cup-winning centre-back.
While Transfermarkt values Romero at €55 million (£46.7m), reports suggest Tottenham will demand closer to £58 million to part ways with the Argentine international, who has earned 42 caps for his country. Spurs are unlikely to entertain formal talks until after their Europa League commitments are wrapped up.
Romero, despite showing flashes of brilliance during his four-year stint in north London, has struggled with fitness issues this season. His departure, should it materialise, would be a significant blow to a Tottenham defence that has endured a turbulent campaign. The club’s Premier League form has faltered, and there is growing uncertainty over the future of manager Ange Postecoglou, who is rumoured to be under pressure heading into the summer.
Atletico Madrid, for their part, are expected to move quickly to secure Romero’s signature, possibly reuniting him with Argentine international teammate Julián Álvarez, who joined the Spanish club from Manchester City last summer.
Tottenham return to Premier League action this Sunday when they host Crystal Palace, but behind the scenes, Romero’s potential exit is shaping up to be one of the key transfer stories to watch this summer.
