Tottenham captain Cristian Romero has reportedly secured a preferential escape route to La Liga, with a special release clause in his contract allowing him to join Spain’s elite for a fixed fee of €60 million.
The Argentine World Cup winner, who signed a lucrative contract extension just last summer, appears to have planned for a future away from North London amidst a season of unprecedented turmoil at the club.
According to MARCA, the clause was a strategic inclusion by Romero to ensure he wouldn’t be priced out of a dream move to Spain.
While Spurs officially value their star defender closer to €70 million, this ‘special clause’ provides a significant discount for a select group of suitors.
Cristian Romero special clause only applicable for La Liga’s big three
The specific nature of the agreement means that not just any club can trigger the €60 million fee.
The clause is exclusively available to Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid.
Atletico, led by Diego Simeone, are widely considered the frontrunners. The Argentine has never hidden his admiration for his compatriot, recently describing himself as a “big fan” of Romero’s personality and defensive aggression.
Real Madrid are also reportedly keeping tabs on the situation as they look to refresh an aging backline. The report adds that the like Romero’s qualities and are aware of the clause in his contract.
While Barcelona also remain an interested observer despite their ongoing financial constraints.
Romero expected to leave Tottenham after another frustrating campaign
The emergence of this clause comes at a time when Romero’s relationship with the Tottenham hierarchy has reportedly cooled.
Spurs are currently in the thick of a desperate relegation battle, sitting just one point above the drop zone in 17th place.
Romero has expressed his frustration, publicly criticising the club’s hierarchy for the lack of intent in the January transfer window.