There’s never a quiet summer when it comes to Tottenham Hotspur, and 2025 looks to be no exception. One of the most intriguing sagas already gathering steam is the future of Argentine defender Cristian Romero. With both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid circling, Spurs have reportedly slapped a hefty price tag on their fiery centre-back — and for good reason.

Let’s dive into why Cristian Romero could be the next big departure from north London, and what it means for all parties involved.

Cristian Romero Could Be Sold This Summer

When Spurs prised Cristian Romero away from Atalanta back in 2021, fans had every reason to be excited. Here was a World Cup-winning defender — aggressive, fearless, technically gifted — the type of player who could anchor Tottenham’s backline for years.

For stretches, he has absolutely lived up to that billing. But the romance seems to be fading, with whispers growing louder that Cristian Romero’s time at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium might be coming to an end.

According to reports emerging from Spain, Spurs would be willing to sanction a sale this summer — provided someone meets their valuation of around €70m (£60m). Given the modern market for top defenders, that figure isn’t outrageous.

After all, Cristian Romero still ranks among Europe’s most talented centre-backs when fully fit and firing. The big question is whether any suitor is willing to roll the dice, especially with his injury history lingering in the background.

Defender Appears Frustrated at Tottenham

It’s not just Tottenham calling the shots here. By all accounts, Cristian Romero himself seems increasingly disillusioned.

Injuries have plagued his campaign, limiting his impact at crucial points of the season. But beyond the physical setbacks, there are suggestions Cristian Romero is frustrated with how the club handled his rehabilitation and recovery processes.

Speaking recently, he pointedly refused to commit his future to Spurs beyond the current campaign — leaving the door wide open for a move away. Tellingly, he even went as far as to highlight a potential move to La Liga in interviews, a rather uncharacteristic admission for a player still under contract.

Body language on the pitch hasn’t gone unnoticed either. Cristian Romero’s usual passion and bite have occasionally morphed into visible irritation. Whether it’s tactics, ambition, or a simple desire for a new challenge, it feels like something has shifted internally.

Real Madrid & Atletico Madrid Both Linked

When a player of Cristian Romero’s caliber becomes available, Europe’s heavyweights inevitably come sniffing.

Both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have reportedly expressed serious interest in bringing the Argentine to Spain. For Madrid, defensive reinforcements are a priority. Injuries to Eder Militao and David Alaba exposed a lack of depth, and with Alaba’s long-term future now uncertain, Los Blancos need quality bodies at the back.

Romero’s aggressive, front-foot defending could provide exactly the injection of energy and toughness Real have lacked at times.

Atletico Madrid, meanwhile, are expected to undergo a defensive reshuffle this summer. Veterans like Cesar Azpilicueta and Axel Witsel are poised to depart, while it remains unclear whether Clement Lenglet’s loan will be made permanent. Diego Simeone loves defenders who can fight and bleed for the cause — Cristian Romero feels like a tailor-made fit.

Early signs suggest Atletico might be slightly more aggressive in their pursuit, but if Real Madrid decide to make a serious offer, history tells us few players can resist the lure of the Bernabeu.

Tottenham’s Plan: Cash In or Stand Firm?

From Tottenham’s perspective, the situation is delicate.

On one hand, Cristian Romero is arguably the club’s best defender, a lynchpin in any ambitions they harbor under Ange Postecoglou or whoever may lead them next. Letting him go would be a massive blow on the pitch.

On the other hand, if Cristian Romero’s heart isn’t fully in it anymore — and if a €70m bid lands on the desk — logic suggests cashing in could be the smartest move.

Spurs initially signed him for around £42.5m after an initial loan. A sale at £60m would represent a tidy profit — something Daniel Levy surely won’t ignore. Plus, the funds could be reinvested into a much-needed squad overhaul.

However, finding a replacement of Romero’s quality won’t be cheap or easy. It’s a high-risk, high-reward scenario that Tottenham must navigate carefully.

A Look Back: Romero’s Rollercoaster Journey

Romero’s European adventure started in Italy when he left Argentina at just 20 years old. He quickly made a name for himself at Genoa, prompting Juventus to splash out €26m on his signature in 2019.

Yet strangely, Romero never played a competitive match for the Bianconeri. Instead, he was loaned back to Genoa, and later to Atalanta — where he truly blossomed into one of Serie A’s premier defenders.

Atalanta, ever the shrewd operators, paid just €16m to make the deal permanent — a masterstroke considering they flipped him to Spurs for nearly triple that figure shortly after.

At his best, Romero combines traditional South American defensive grit with modern technical prowess. He’s aggressive, sometimes too aggressive for his own good, but it’s that fiery spirit that has endeared him to fans — both at club level and internationally with Argentina’s World Cup-winning side.

What Happens Next?

Much will depend on how serious Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid get in their pursuit. If a bidding war erupts, Tottenham could find themselves in a strong negotiating position.

But there’s a real possibility that Romero himself pushes for an exit. In that case, Spurs might not have much choice but to part ways, albeit on their terms.

From Romero’s point of view, a move to Spain could be a dream scenario. Regular Champions League football, a warmer climate, and a style of play that might suit his technical ability — all compelling factors.

For Tottenham, losing him would hurt. But with smart recruitment and the right reinvestment, it could also serve as a catalyst for much-needed squad rejuvenation.

Conclusion: A Summer of Change on the Horizon

Cristian Romero’s Tottenham journey has been thrilling, frustrating, and everything in between. As Spurs prepare for what could be a transformative summer, the Argentine’s future remains one of the biggest storylines to watch.

A €70m asking price signals Tottenham’s openness to change — but whether Romero ends up at Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, or stays put for one more season, one thing is clear: we’re about to witness one of the summer’s most fascinating transfer sagas.

Stay tuned, because this one could go right down to the wire.