Atletico Madrid are pushing to sign Tottenham centre-back Cristian Romero this summer.
Romero was declared Player of the Match in the UEFA Europa League final as Tottenham ended their 17-year trophy drought with a 1-0 victory against Manchester United (21 May).
The defender’s performances this season, which saw him named the Player of the Tournament in the Europa League, have caught the attention of Atletico Madrid.
Now, as Diego Simeone’s side pushes to sign Romero, it is understood that Tottenham will come to an agreement with the centre-back this summer.
Romero will be allowed to leave Tottenham if contract isn’t renewed
Question marks surround Romero’s future at Tottenham despite the Lilywhites’ Europa League success, with manager Ange Postecoglou’s continuation still uncertain.
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The players, including the Argentine, have grown fond of the coach who led many to their first European trophy, and want him to continue for another season.
As reported by Sky Sports (29 May), Atletico are expected to approach Spurs for the signing of Romero as early as this week, with CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin intending to open talks with Daniel Levy.
And Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that Spurs will either agree a new contract or allow Romero to leave this summer.
“Romero was outstanding in the Europa League final,” Wenham said.
“He got us over the line against Manchester United. I know Romero has got a young family, he’s got a good group of friends at Tottenham, too.
“It will be interesting to see if we can convince him to stay. I think the only way we had a chance was by securing UEFA Champions League football, and now that we have that, I think there is a greater chance of Romero staying.
“However, if he does stay, he needs to renew his contract, because he only has two years left on his deal. Therefore, there will be an agreement this summer, one way or another.”
Tottenham should move for Marc Guehi if Romero leaves
While it is understandable that Tottenham do not want to part with their best defender, Levy needs to begin searching for replacements.
Crystal Palace’s Guehi could be a viable option. The 24-year-old has been exceptional for Palace this season, praised for his composure and defensive solidity.