Tottenham player has told Daniel Levy he wants out – New meeting with Spurs chairman, club need to dig deep

Cristian Romero delivered a standout performance in Tottenham Hotspur’s Europa League final victory over Manchester United, a match that solidified his growing influence within the club.

The Argentine defender, a World Cup winner, was instrumental in helping Spurs secure the title on one of European football’s grandest stages. Following the match, Romero expressed his deep affection for Tottenham, stating that he “loves Spurs very much” and joined the club with the aim of making history—a goal he believes he has now accomplished.

However, despite his emotional connection to the club, new developments suggest his future could lie elsewhere.

According to sources relayed by Spanish outlet Marca, Romero has now set his sights on a move to Atlético Madrid. The Spanish giants, known for their tactical rigidity and defensive prowess under manager Diego Simeone, have reportedly identified Romero as a primary target for the summer transfer window.

This move mirrors Atlético’s strategy last season when they successfully pried Julián Álvarez from Manchester City. Now, they are hoping to execute a similar deal by bringing Romero to the Spanish capital.

Behind the scenes, preparations are already underway. Romero has reportedly communicated directly with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy, making it clear that he wishes to leave and join Atlético.

While Levy insisted that any transfer discussions would have to wait until after the conclusion of the Europa League campaign, the end of the tournament has now removed that barrier. The pathway is open for Atlético to make their move, and all indications suggest they intend to proceed quickly.

Negotiating with Daniel Levy is never straightforward. The Spurs chairman has built a reputation as one of the most tenacious and strategic figures in European football.

Atlético Madrid are fully aware of the challenge they face, and they’ve already taken several steps to prepare for the complex discussions ahead. Sporting director Carlos Bucero has reportedly held preliminary talks with Romero’s agent, Ciro Palermo, and efforts have been made to establish a negotiation framework that can satisfy all parties involved.

With the stakes now rising, Atlético CEO Miguel Ángel Gil is expected to become directly involved in the talks. Gil has dealt with Levy in the past, having previously orchestrated the signings of Kieran Trippier, Matt Doherty, and Sergio Reguilón from Spurs.

The history between the two executives could facilitate dialogue, but it won’t change Tottenham’s firm stance on the player’s value.

Tottenham have placed a €70 million price tag on Romero, a figure that reflects his quality, experience, and importance to the squad. While Atlético are eager to lower the asking price, they understand that any successful offer will need to be in the region of €52 million or higher.

Negotiations will likely hinge on performance-based add-ons and payment structures, as both clubs seek to find middle ground.

Romero, for his part, remains resolute. Despite the emotional high of winning a European trophy with Tottenham, he has not wavered in his desire to play under Simeone.

He sees a move to Atlético as the next logical step in his career, drawn to the challenge of La Liga and the opportunity to work within a system that emphasizes defensive strength and tactical discipline.

His admiration for Simeone’s coaching philosophy appears to be a driving force behind his decision, and he is now waiting for the two clubs to reach an agreement that would make the transfer a reality.

For Tottenham, losing a player of Romero’s caliber would represent a significant blow, especially as they prepare for a new season that includes Champions League football.

His leadership at the back and ability to marshal the defense have become vital components of the team’s recent success. Yet if his departure becomes inevitable, the club will seek to maximize their return and reinvest in a way that sustains their progress.

The coming weeks will be crucial as negotiations intensify. Atlético Madrid are determined, Romero is committed, and Tottenham, ever the astute negotiators, will not part with their star defender without securing terms that reflect his true market value.

Whether this saga ends with Romero wearing red and white next season or staying in north London will depend on how effectively both clubs navigate the complexities of high-stakes European football transfers.