Cristian Romero’s Tottenham Exit Blocked? Atletico Madrid Close in on Piero Hincapie Deal

Atletico Madrid Near €50m Agreement for Bayer Leverkusen Star, Putting Spurs Defender’s Move in Doubt

The summer transfer window never fails to deliver its fair share of twists and turns, and the latest chapter could have a significant impact on both north London and Madrid. With Cristian Romero reportedly angling for a move away from Tottenham Hotspur, and Atletico Madrid considered to be leading the chase, fresh developments suggest that the Argentine’s longed-for return to La Liga might be placed on hold. Enter Piero Hincapie.

The Ecuadorian centre-back, currently shining at Bayer Leverkusen, is now on the verge of sealing a move to the Spanish capital. Atletico Madrid are reportedly ready to splash close to €50 million on Piero Hincapie, a move that would almost certainly rule out a simultaneous big-money swoop for Spurs’ World Cup-winning defender.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Cristian Romero’s desire to leave Tottenham this summer has not been kept under wraps. The Argentine, fresh off the back of helping Spurs claim the 2024/25 Europa League title, has publicly stated that he “would love to play in La Liga”. His aggressive, front-foot defending and no-nonsense leadership have long made him a dream profile for Atletico boss Diego Simeone, a fellow countryman known for cultivating combative, defensively resolute squads.

Despite being a mainstay in Tottenham’s backline, Cristian Romero has reportedly grown disillusioned with life in the Premier League. A move to a club like Atletico Madrid, who are regularly in contention for domestic and European honours, would offer a new challenge and the kind of competitive environment that aligns with his fiery character.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Piero Hincapie

However, just as the stars were seemingly aligning for Romero and Atletico, new reports from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo have emerged, suggesting that Los Rojiblancos have shifted their priority target to Piero Hincapie.

The 22-year-old Ecuadorian has enjoyed a meteoric rise at Bayer Leverkusen, playing a key role in their Bundesliga title-winning campaign under Xabi Alonso. Versatile and technically sound, Piero Hincapie can operate not only as a central defender but also as a left-back—a trait that greatly appeals to Simeone, whose sides are built on tactical flexibility and discipline.

Atletico have reportedly made significant progress in negotiations with both Piero Hincapie’s camp and Bayer Leverkusen, who are open to cashing in on the defender provided they receive a suitable offer. The fee in discussion is believed to be in the region of €50 million, a substantial investment that casts a shadow over any plans to simultaneously sign Cristian Romero, whose price tag stands at around €70 million (£59m/$79m).

DID YOU KNOW?

Cristian Romero has often been linked with a return to Spain, having previously played in Argentina and Italy before arriving at Spurs from Atalanta in 2021. His defensive prowess is undeniable, but his aggressive style has also drawn criticism, with suspensions and disciplinary issues occasionally affecting his availability.

Still, there is no doubting the pedigree of the Argentine international, who played a pivotal role in his nation’s 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph. At just 27, he is arguably entering the peak years of his career—a factor not lost on clubs like Atletico, who are always on the lookout for battle-hardened yet technically sound defenders.

On the other hand, Piero Hincapie’s trajectory has been equally impressive. At just 22, the Ecuadorian is already a seasoned performer at club and international level. Known for his composure on the ball and positional awareness, Piero Hincapie also adds the ability to push forward into midfield when required, offering Simeone an extra tactical option.

WHAT NEXT FOR CRISTIAN Cristian ROMERO?

Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United – UEFA Europa League Final 2025

With Piero Hincapie seemingly destined for Madrid, Romero’s situation remains in flux. While his desire to leave Tottenham is clear, the number of realistic destinations that can both afford him and offer a sporting project that matches his ambitions is relatively limited.

Tottenham, for their part, have no urgent need to sell. Having lifted their first major trophy in 17 years, there is renewed optimism under new manager Thomas Frank. The club hierarchy have reportedly placed a firm €70 million valuation on Romero, unwilling to budge unless a suitable offer is tabled.

Simeone has allegedly spoken with Cristian Romero directly to gauge his interest, but if the Piero Hincapie deal is finalised in the coming days, those plans may be shelved—at least temporarily.

SUMMER VACATION, UNCERTAIN FUTURE

Romero is currently enjoying a well-deserved holiday following a gruelling campaign. He’s expected to return to Spurs’ pre-season training in mid-July, unless his future is resolved before then. While Atletico could still rekindle their interest later in the summer, especially if any of their current defenders depart, the clock is ticking.

Meanwhile, the arrival of Piero Hincapie at the Metropolitano could be seen as a statement of intent from Atletico Madrid. It signals not just a tactical upgrade but also a commitment to securing young, adaptable talent that can serve the club for years to come. With La Liga and Champions League ambitions firmly in mind, Simeone appears to have chosen his man.

FINAL THOUGHTS

So, where does this leave Cristian Romero? For now, in limbo. Tottenham may still convince him to stay and play a leadership role in a promising project under Thomas Frank. Or, another suitor may come calling from Spain or beyond.

But one thing is clear: if Atletico Madrid secure Piero Hincapie’s signature, Cristian Romero’s long-held dream of donning the red-and-white shirt of Atleti will have to wait. The summer is long, and in football, nothing is final until the ink is dry. But for now, the balance of power in this transfer saga has clearly shifted.

Keep your eyes on Madrid and London—this story is far from over.