Report: Tottenham Defender Eyed by Atlético Amid Contract Uncertainty | OneFootball

Crunch Time for Tottenham as Atlético Eye Romero – What Comes Next?Atlético’s Interest Signals Summer Shake-Up

Cristian Romero’s summer could be pivotal—not just for Tottenham Hotspur, but for European football’s defensive market. Atlético Madrid, known for their defensive discipline under Diego Simeone, are tracking the Argentine World Cup winner closely, per a report by Sky Sports. With Romero entering the final two years of his Spurs deal on July 1, there’s a very real chance this could be a crossroads moment for both player and club.

His reputation, despite recent injury setbacks, remains formidable. Romero has missed 27 games in the current campaign, a period that coincides with Tottenham’s tumble down the Premier League table. Still, Simeone—his compatriot and a master tactician—sees value where others see volatility.

“His contract will run out in 2027, the way the market works, you have to think Tottenham will be tempted to sell the player or offer him a new contract.”

Photo: IMAGO

This is a key point. With just over two years left, Spurs are on the clock. Either they re-commit to Romero or they risk letting his value drop while the suitors circle.

Spurs’ Struggles Expose Deeper Concerns

Romero’s on-field absence has clearly hurt Tottenham. However, what’s more telling are his comments off the pitch. His candid criticism of Spurs’ transfer policy, particularly the failure to properly reinvest after key departures, underscores a wider disillusionment.

“Manchester City competes every year, you see how Liverpool strengthens its squad, Chelsea strengthens their squad, doesn’t do well, strengthens again, and now they’re seeing results. Those are the things to imitate.”

This isn’t just a frustrated player speaking—it’s a leader within the dressing room calling for structural change. In many ways, it echoes the issues that plagued Spurs during the latter stages of Mauricio Pochettino’s reign: strong starting XI, weak squad depth, and managerial churn.

Romero is now working under his fifth manager in four years—an unstable environment for any elite-level footballer. From Harry Kane to Steven Bergwijn, Davinson Sánchez to Emerson Royal, the exits have been numerous. And while Spurs did break their transfer record to sign Dominic Solanke and invested in the promising Archie Gray, the net spend of £70 million hasn’t translated into success on the pitch.

Atlético’s Offer: Champions League and a Familiar Face

For Romero, the appeal of Atlético is clear. Champions League football, a system designed for defensive solidity, and a manager who shares his roots.

“Atletico are very interested in signing him and can offer Champions League football, as well Diego Simeone, with both of them from Argentina.”

In fact, Atlético’s interest appears undeterred by internal reshuffling, such as the potential departure of sporting director Andrea Berta to Arsenal. That only emphasises the seriousness of their intent.

It’s an attractive proposition for Romero—especially with Tottenham languishing in 14th, out of the title race and still uncertain in Europe. The only potential lifeline is a Europa League triumph, which would secure Champions League football for next season.

“It may make sense for the player but if Tottenham win the Europa League this season, they would be in the Champions League as well. It is going to be a crunch summer for them.”

Contract or Cash-In: What Spurs Must Decide

Tottenham’s predicament is not unfamiliar. In recent years, they’ve repeatedly allowed top talents to enter the final stretch of their contracts, weakening their negotiating stance. In Romero’s case, the clock is already ticking.

“You get the feeling that either he has got to sign a new contract or Tottenham will have to sell him. They don’t have to but if they do, Atletico are interested.”

Romero’s durability may be under scrutiny following his long lay-off, but his class is undeniable. Over 100 appearances, seven goals, and a presence that elevates Spurs’ backline when fit. He’s not just a player—they’ve built their defence around him.

Yet, with Spurs’ season veering toward underachievement, the potential of losing Romero to a Champions League club, led by an Argentine mastermind like Simeone, becomes more plausible.

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There’s a growing sense of déjà vu among Tottenham supporters. Another elite talent considering the exit door, frustrated by ambition unfulfilled and direction unclear. Cristian Romero’s comments may sting, but they ring with truth. Too often Spurs sell high and buy low—or worse, late.

Romero’s potential departure feels especially grim. He’s not just any defender. He’s vocal, passionate, and was supposed to be the spine of this new Tottenham era under Ange Postecoglou. The Van de Ven-Romero axis looked promising, but injuries and inconsistency have wrecked that momentum.

What’s frustrating is the timing. With a Europa League run still alive, there’s a chance to salvage the season. But should they fall short, the lack of Champions League football could tip the scales. Atlético offering that platform, plus the chance to work under Simeone, is huge for a player of Romero’s mentality.

Selling him might fetch a decent fee, but it sends a message—yet again—that Tottenham are a stepping stone, not a final destination. For fans, that narrative is wearing thin. If the board truly believes in this project, they must back it. That means keeping Romero, not cashing in.