Tottenham have been hoping to convince Cristian Romero to stay in North London this summer.
The Argentine, who joined in a big-money deal from Atalanta in 2022, appeared to be looking for a path away from the club following the sacking of Ange Postecoglou.
In a post on social media, Romero spoke of the “many obstacles” at Tottenham, with some fans taking the comment as a dig against the club’s owners, Daniel Levy and ENIC.
New head coach Thomas Frank will hope the defender will remain at the club past the transfer window’s deadline, with the Dane looking to sure up last season’s leaky defence.
Romero could be set for Real Madrid move
Several clubs have registered their interest in a move for Romero this summer, with the 27-year-old’s contract set to expire in 2027.
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Among them, Atletico Madrid’s interest looks to be the most intense, with the Spanish giants keen to add the defender’s World Cup-winning experience to their back-line.
But according to AS (July 9), Los Colchoneros have grown tired in their pursuit of Romero, and have given up hope of completing the signing this summer.
Tottenham have resisted all attempts to sign the Argentine, and Atleti will now look to approach alternative options.
The news will come as some relief for Spurs fans, but the door now could be open for the La Liga side’s Madrid neighbours.
Real Madrid have been linked with a possible move for Romero in the past, and could return to test Tottenham’s resolve this summer.
With injuries proving persistent for Eder Militao and David Alaba, Xabi Alonso’s side are in the market for another new central defender after signing Dean Huijsen.
Potential moves for Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate and Arsenal’s William Saliba have been mooted, but both deals would come at significant cost for Real.
Given Romero’s uncertain contract situation, Los Blancos may see fit to make a move for the Argentine this summer and could be capable of meeting Spurs’ asking price.
Spurs must prove ambition to Romero
A potential move to Real Madrid would be a hard proposition to turn down for any player, but especially in the case of Romero, who looks to be unsettled at Spurs.
Frank will have a duty to prove his ambition to the Argentine, but the club must take to the transfer market to demonstrate their willingness to bring further trophies to The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.