Belief Tottenham player set to cost €70m – Absolute priority to get deal done
The future of Cristian Romero at Tottenham Hotspur remains uncertain, with Atletico Madrid reportedly preparing a summer move for the Argentine center-back.
According to Spanish publication Marca, Spurs have placed a €70 million valuation on their defensive stalwart, who has emerged as a top target for Diego Simeone’s side as they plan for life after Cesar Azpilicueta and Axel Witsel.
Romero’s potential reunion with compatriot Simeone in Madrid adds an intriguing subplot to Tottenham’s turbulent season. The 27-year-old defender, who initially joined Spurs on loan from Atalanta before making his €52 million move permanent in 2022, has been one of the few consistent performers during an otherwise dismal Premier League campaign that sees the club languishing in 16th place.
Despite the team’s domestic struggles, Romero remains focused on ending the season strongly, particularly in the Europa League where Tottenham face Bodo/Glimt in the semifinals.
“I’m taking it day by day,” Romero recently told Gastón Edul’s Los Edul podcast. “With two months left, my priority is performing at my highest level. Reaching the Europa League semifinals is significant for this club after such a long wait – I want to win it.”
His comments suggest a professional approach to the speculation, though the lure of Champions League football with Atletico could prove tempting should Tottenham fail to secure European qualification through their league position.
Romero’s importance to Tottenham is reflected in his 121 appearances for the club, including 18 this season where his leadership and combative style have stood out amidst the team’s defensive frailties.
The proposed €70 million price tag represents a significant profit on their initial investment and demonstrates Tottenham’s recognition of his value, though it remains to be seen whether Atletico will meet their demands.
For Tottenham, Romero’s potential departure would represent another major shakeup in their defensive line, coming just two years after his permanent signing was meant to solidify their backline for the foreseeable future.
However, with the club facing the possibility of missing out on European competition altogether unless they win the Europa League, difficult decisions may need to be made regarding their prized assets.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether Atletico formalize their interest with a concrete offer, and whether Tottenham’s resolve will be tested by the Argentine’s potential desire to work under his countryman Simeone.
For now, Romero’s immediate focus remains on guiding Tottenham through their European semifinal and potentially salvaging something from a season that has failed to live up to expectations. The coming weeks could determine whether this is merely speculative chatter or the beginning of a major defensive reshuffle in North London.