No matter what happens to Tottenham Hotspur over the next couple of months, whether they stay up or not, there's an expectation that captain Cristian Romero will leave the club this summer.
Despite penning a contract extension last year amid rife transfer speculation, the extent of Spurs' woes this season means the Lilywhites would do well to hang on to their skipper.
The newfound leadership responsibility undoubtedly aided the World Cup winner last season, who donned the armband with pride in Son Heung-min's absence and was the natural pick to succeed the South Korean icon as captain for 2025/26.
However, Romero has reverted to his old ways, contributing to Spurs' demise. Lapses in focus and an inability to rein in his aggression have led to concessions and suspensions, respectively, and he simply hasn't developed into the leader the Lilywhites require.
An outstanding centre-back on his day, one of the best, Romero will undoubtedly thrive were he to move on this summer. Given what we've endured this term, Spurs may be right to cash in and completely rebuild their backline, with Micky van de Ven also linked with a move away.
Atlético Madrid unsure whether to pursue Romero again
Romero's imperious apex means Europe's elite are bound to take a look, and Atlético Madrid have been strongly linked in the past.
The Argentine has previously talked up the possibility of playing in Spain, and playing under Diego Simeone in the Spanish football just feels absolutely right.
The Atléti boss is an admirer; he hasn't hidden that, but Sky Sports reports that other decision-makers at the Metropolitano aren't completely sold on Romero.
Thus, the transfer plenty of us expect to happen this summer seemingly isn't a foregone conclusion. Atléti have been spooked by a chaotic Romero campaign.
If the La Liga outfit opt against a pursuit, that'd leave the Argentine defender in a rather awkward position, with alternative options yet to come to the table. He'll surely have suitors, though, especially if Spurs are forced into parting ways at a discounted price.
Importantly, Romero's sole focus right now is keeping the Lilywhites in the Premier League, and having him available for the final seven games of the season will be key to boosting our chances, even if he didn't cover himself glory during Nottingham Forest's second goal sequence on Sunday.
What's become evident is that Spurs should look at rebuilding their defence around teenage sensation Luka VuÅ¡koviÄ under a new manager next season. Wiping the slate clean is very much a necessity.