Exclusive: Tottenham ready to offer ‘incredible’ player a significant new contract, but he is set on leaving
Daniel Levy and Tottenham Hotspur are preparing a lucrative new contract offer for Cristian Romero in a last-ditch effort to keep their star defender, but the Argentine’s heart appears set on a move to Atletico Madrid. Despite Spurs’ willingness to make him their highest-paid player, convincing him to stay may prove difficult.
Romero, 27, has been instrumental in Tottenham’s recent success, playing a crucial role in their Europa League triumph—the club’s first major trophy since 2008.
His commanding presence at the back, aggressive defending, and leadership qualities have made him indispensable. Yet, with just two years left on his current deal and Atletico pushing hard, Spurs face an uphill battle to retain him.
Sources indicate that Romero is open to listening to Tottenham’s contract proposal, but his preference leans heavily toward a switch to Atletico Madrid. The Spanish giants, managed by Diego Simeone, have been actively involved in discussions, and the allure of joining a squad with a strong Argentine contingent—including Rodrigo De Paul and Ángel Correa—could be decisive.
Tottenham had initially planned to extend Romero’s contract earlier this year, offering terms that would have placed him above all other earners at the club.
However, negotiations were postponed due to the club’s Europa League commitments and uncertainty surrounding former manager Ange Postecoglou’s future.
Now, with Champions League qualification secured and Thomas Frank set to take charge, Spurs hope they can still persuade their defensive linchpin to stay.
Romero currently ranks as Tottenham’s third-highest earner, behind Son Heung-min and James Maddison. To convince him to stay, the club may need to shatter their wage structure, offering him a deal worth around £200,000 per week—a significant jump from his current £165,000 salary.
Tottenham’s Current Highest Earners (Weekly Wages)
| Player | Weekly Salary |
|---|---|
| Son Heung-min | £190,000 |
| James Maddison | £170,000 |
| Cristian Romero | £165,000 |
| Dejan Kulusevski | £165,000 |
| Dominic Solanke | £110,000 |
While Spurs have historically been cautious with wages, losing Romero would leave a gaping hole in their defense, forcing them into the transfer market for a high-profile replacement.
Potential Replacements if Romero Departs
If Romero pushes for an exit, Tottenham have already identified possible reinforcements. Among the names linked is Kevin Danso, the Lens defender who has impressed in Ligue 1.
Another option is Bayern Munich’s Min-jae Kim, who has been offered to Spurs and could provide an experienced alternative.
Thomas Frank, expected to be confirmed as Tottenham’s new manager soon, will play a key role in either retaining Romero or overseeing a defensive overhaul. His first task will be to assess the squad and determine whether the Argentine can be persuaded to stay.
Romero’s situation highlights a broader challenge for Tottenham: balancing financial prudence with the need to retain top talent. While Champions League football strengthens their bargaining power, competing with Atletico’s project—and Simeone’s persuasive influence—won’t be easy.
If Romero departs, it would mark a significant blow, but Spurs must act decisively. Securing a top-tier replacement and reinforcing the squad will be critical in ensuring they remain competitive both domestically and in Europe.
For now, all eyes are on Romero’s decision. Will he commit to Tottenham’s vision under Thomas Frank, or will the pull of Atletico Madrid prove too strong? The coming weeks will reveal whether Spurs can pull off what would be their most important contract renewal of the summer.