Atletico Madrid earmark signing Tottenham Hotspur star a priority before Club World Cup

Romero has recently become the subject of growing speculation regarding a potential exit from Tottenham Hotspur. The Argentine centre-back has missed key portions of the season due to injury, and frustration has reportedly been mounting, both from the player’s camp and within the club, over how his recovery has been handled.

Last month, reports emerged suggesting that Romero was dissatisfied with the club’s medical management of his injury setbacks. Adding further fuel to the rumours, Romero has yet to commit his long-term future to Spurs, and has privately expressed interest in a move to La Liga.

The 27-year-old has been linked with both Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, with the latter particularly keen on securing his services in the upcoming summer window. With Atlético pushing to bring in another top-tier Premier League defender, they see Romero as a key target, and confidence is growing in Spain that a deal could be struck in the coming weeks.

Tottenham needs to generate funds for the upcoming window

With Cristian “Cuti” Romero’s experience and standout defensive qualities, Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone is reportedly eager to bring the Argentine to the Spanish capital this summer. Known for his speed, aggression, and ability to play on the front foot, Romero fits the mould of a defender Simeone believes can elevate Atlético’s backline.

According to AS via X, Simeone views Romero as the ideal player to lead a defensive revamp at the club. The manager is said to be convinced that Atlético’s shortcomings this season, particularly in high-stakes matches against rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona, stemmed primarily from defensive lapses rather than a lack of attacking power. In response, Simeone has made signing a world-class centre-back and a reliable left-back his top priorities for the upcoming transfer window, and Romero tops the wishlist.

While reports suggest there is already an agreement in principle between the player and Atlético, Tottenham remain firmly in control of the situation. The North London club are understandably reluctant to part with one of their most important players without securing a suitable replacement.

Diego Simeone, however, is determined not to let this opportunity slip away. He is pushing hard to complete the deal before the start of the upcoming Club World Cup, viewing Romero as a cornerstone of his defensive overhaul.

Should the move materialise, Tottenham would face the urgent task of finding a capable replacement. Romero has consistently ranked among the Premier League’s top centre-backs, and his departure would leave a significant void, not just in terms of defensive solidity, but also leadership and composure. As a World Cup winner, his presence in the dressing room brings a level of experience and mentality that is notoriously difficult to replace.