Tottenham have given the green-light for a big name player to leave this summer for around half of what they were asking for last year, according to reports.
Tottenham climb out of drop zone after vital win at Aston Villa
Spurs have given themselves a major survival boost after a huge 2-1 win away at Aston Villa on Sunday.
It was a result that lifted them out of the drop zone and brought some much-needed belief back into the squad after a difficult stretch.
Form in recent weeks had been a major concern.
Spurs had been struggling for consistency before Roberto De Zerbi, picking up zero Premier League wins in 2026 and slipping into real trouble near the bottom of the table.
De Zerbi guided them to their first league victory of the calendar year against Wolves the weekend before last, but their very precarious position made that victory at Villa Park all the more important.
It was not just about the three points, but also about showing resilience under pressure and responding when it mattered most.
West Ham's 3-0 slip up away to Brentford means Spurs' destiny is now back in their own hands after a massive last week for the Lilywhites, but it isn't over just yet.
While attention remains on survival, planning for the summer is already underway, and one of the biggest talking points involves the future of Cristian Romero.
Cristian Romero 'top of sale list' as Tottenham green-light cut-price exit
According to a report from The Boy Hotspur, Romero is no longer considered 'untouchable' and is now 'top of the sale list' heading into June.
The report suggests Tottenham have significantly lowered their expectations over a potential fee, with the defender now valued up to £56 million rather than the previously discussed figure of over £100 million last year (The Independent).
That shift represents a major change in stance.
Not long ago, the 28-year-old was widely seen as one of the club’s key assets, with suggestions that only a huge offer would even be considered.
Past claims had placed his potential price well into nine figures, reflecting his status as a World Cup-winning centre-back and one of Spurs’ most important players.
Now, the situation appears different.
Financial pressures and the club’s current position are likely to play a role.
Missing out on European football and spending much of the season battling near the bottom has created a need to reassess priorities. Selling a high-value player could help balance the books and fund a wider rebuild.
Romero’s importance on the pitch has never really been in doubt.
When available, he has been a central figure in Tottenham’s defence, bringing aggression, leadership and top-level experience. However, injuries, inconsistency and a tendency for suspension mean Spurs have not always been able to rely on him.
If the reported valuation is accurate, it could attract strong interest.
A fee in the region of £56 million is far more accessible for top European clubs compared to the previous £100 million-plus range.
That opens the door to serious offers, especially from sides looking to strengthen defensively at the highest level, with Real and Atlético Madrid named as concrete suitors.
Selling Romero would be a major decision, not just financially but also in terms of leadership and quality within the squad. Replacing a player of his calibre would not be straightforward, especially if they go down.
For now, though, the priority remains on the pitch.
The win over Villa, their second three points on the bounce, has given Tottenham a platform, but there is still work to do to secure their Premier League status.
Off the field, Romero’s situation is one to watch closely.