Tottenham Rocked by Cristian Romero Transfer Admission

Argentine Defender Keeps Door Open to La Liga Move Amid Real and Atletico Madrid Interest

It’s the kind of quote that sends ripples through a club. A few carefully chosen words in an interview, said with humility and focus, but loaded with implications. This week, Cristian Romero — the combative, no-nonsense centre-back who has been a cornerstone of Tottenham Hotspur’s backline — may have just opened the door to his departure.

Speaking to Los Edul, the Argentina international refused to commit to his future in north London. While he made it clear that his short-term focus remains on helping Spurs finish strong — particularly in their bid to win the Europa League — he also confessed that talks about his long-term future will happen after the season ends.

And, crucially, he admitted a desire to play in La Liga — a statement that will not go unnoticed in Madrid, where both Real and Atletico are circling.

“There Are a Few Months Left… Then We’ll See”

Romero isn’t one to stir the pot unnecessarily. On the pitch, he’s aggressive and uncompromising. Off it, he tends to keep his cards close to his chest. But even in his usual measured tone, his recent comments struck a nerve among Spurs supporters.

“There are almost two months left of the season, and I want to perform at my best and try to finish it in the best way possible,” Cristian Romero explained. “We are in the semi-final of the Europa League, which is an important step for the club after so many years that it has not reached this stage.

“After that, we’ll see. In the end, I would like to win it, but it depends on many things.

“The truth is that I have not spoken with my agent yet, but I am willing to do anything. My focus is always on growing and looking for new places to continue developing, but I don’t want to talk about that yet because there are a few months left to finish the season.”

It’s as non-committal as it gets, and coming from a player of Cristian Romero’s caliber, that’s bound to cause unease — especially given Spurs’ current position.

Spurs’ Inconsistent Season Fuels Uncertainty

Cristian Romero has been heavily linked with a move to Spain / Catherine Ivill – AMA/GettyImages

While there was plenty of optimism when Ange Postecoglou took over at the start of the campaign — and early performances seemed to justify the hype — Tottenham have faltered in the second half of the season. Injuries, inconsistency, and defensive vulnerabilities have all contributed to a frustrating slide down the Premier League table.

Romero himself has been a standout, but his frustration has been noticeable. Sources close to the player have hinted at discontent with how the club has managed his fitness this season, particularly during congested fixture periods when he was rushed back prematurely.

Though still viewed as “untouchable” within the squad, Cristian Romero is entering the final two years of his contract. For a player in his prime, with international pedigree and Champions League experience, a decision point is looming.

“La Liga Is a League I Need to Play In”

The biggest headline-grabber from Cristian Romero’s interview wasn’t the uncertainty — it was the aspiration.

“La Liga is a league I would love to play in and need to play in because it is the league that I lack [to play in every top division],” he revealed.

At 26, Cristian Romero has already played in the Argentine Primera División, the Serie A with Atalanta, and now the Premier League. La Liga would complete the set — and given the admiration he commands in Spain, it seems like a natural next step.

Atletico or Real? The Madrid Duel Brewing

It’s no secret that both Madrid clubs have long tracked Cristian Romero. Real Madrid, in particular, have admired his aggressive style and aerial prowess since his Atalanta days. With David Alaba and Eder Militao facing fitness questions, and Nacho out of contract, Real are in the market for a centre-back.

But it’s Atletico Madrid who have made the boldest move so far. According to reports in Spain, Diego Simeone has even spoken directly with Cristian Romero about a potential summer switch — a classic Cholo maneuver. Cristian Romero would fit perfectly in Simeone’s gritty, warrior-minded defensive setup, and Atletico are prepared to move swiftly.

The fact that Cristian Romero speaks the language, understands the culture, and has international teammates in La Liga only strengthens the likelihood of a move to Spain.

Spurs Face a Difficult Dilemma

For Tottenham, losing Cristian Romero would be a huge blow. Not only is he arguably their best defender, but he also brings leadership, bite, and a winning mentality that’s been missing since the likes of Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld left the club.

Romero’s contract doesn’t expire until 2027, but his value on the market is high now — and if he doesn’t renew, the clock will start ticking next summer. Spurs reportedly paid around £42.5 million to sign him permanently from Atalanta in 2022. Any deal now would need to reflect that value — and then some.

With Tottenham unlikely to qualify for the Champions League this season, convincing Cristian Romero to stay could become even harder. Elite players want to play elite football, and the prospect of Thursday nights in the Conference League doesn’t exactly inspire loyalty.

Spurs Must Act — One Way or Another

So, what now for Spurs?

First, they need to open talks with Cristian Romero as soon as the season ends. If he’s truly open to staying, a bumper new contract — perhaps even with a captain’s armband involved — could be enough to persuade him.

But if his heart is set on Spain, then it may be wise to cash in this summer and reinvest. Postecoglou has already begun shaping the squad in his image, and a high-profile sale could give the club the funds needed to pursue a new defensive leader.

Either way, clarity is key. The worst-case scenario for Spurs would be letting Cristian Romero’s value diminish over time, only for him to walk away for less than market value — or for free.

A Summer to Watch

Cristian Romero’s transfer saga is one that could define Tottenham’s summer. He’s not just another player — he’s a statement piece, a symbol of what Spurs could be if they built properly.

But the Argentine’s ambition might be pulling him elsewhere. La Liga is calling. Madrid is calling. And Cristian Romero, for the first time, hasn’t said no.

Tottenham may have been rocked by his admission — but they still have time to act. Whether that means convincing him to stay, or finding the best possible deal for the club, the next few months will be pivotal.

The only thing that seems certain right now? Cristian Romero’s future won’t be settled quietly.