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Atletico Madrid Eyes Summer Acquisition of Tottenham Hotspur Defender Cristian Romero
Atletico Madrid are reportedly keen to finalize a transfer for Tottenham Hotspur’s central defender, Cristian Romero, ahead of the Club World Cup. The Spanish club aims to bolster their defensive ranks with the Argentinian international in a move that could see Romero depart North London after four seasons. This potential transfer would see Romero, a key player for Tottenham, join Atletico Madrid as they prepare for upcoming competitions.
Romero’s Tottenham Tenure and Potential Departure
Since his arrival from Atalanta initially on loan in the 2021-22 campaign, Romero has become a vitalcomponent of the Spurs lineup. However, the 26-year-old defender has expressed concerns regarding the club’s hierarchy and player recruitment strategies. In December, he publicly pointed out perceived deficiencies in squad depth compared to other Premier League giants, particularly following a series of injuries within the team.
Frustrations and Transfer Speculation
Having personally experienced periods on the sidelines due to injury and suspension during the season, Romero has also made comments seemingly praising his national team’s medical personnel, which some interpreted as veiled criticism of his injury treatment at Tottenham.
Reports emerged last month indicating Atletico Madrid’s interest in monitoring Romero’s situation, fueling speculation of a possible summer transfer. Furthermore, it is understood that the Tottenham defender himself is open to exploring alternative options, with a desire to compete in the Champions League being a significant factor in his considerations.
Atletico’s Pursuit and Valuation
Atletico Madrid are keen to secure a deal for Tottenham defender Cristian Romero
The Argentina international is also understood to be interested in exploring a move away
The LaLiga side want to conclude a £43million deal for Romero before the Club World Cup
Atletico Madrid have reportedly identified Romero as a primary defensive target and are optimistic about securing his signature for a fee of £43 million, according to reports. The La Liga club are aiming to recruit two defenders, with Romero being a priority, and Valencia’s Cristhian Mosquera also featuring on their shortlist.
Contract Expirations and Club World Cup Preparation
The contracts of Atletico Madrid players Cesar Azpilicueta, Axel Witsel, and Reinildo Mandava are set to expire at the end of June, casting doubt on their participation in the Club World Cup, scheduled from June 14 to July 13. The potential acquisition of Romero is seen as crucial to reinforce their defensive unit ahead of this tournament.
Romero’s Concerns and Tottenham’s Performance
Cristian Romero, a World Cup winner with Argentina, is currently playing under his fifth manager at Tottenham, including interim appointments, since his £43 million move from Atalanta in 2021. In December, Romero issued a warning to Daniel Levy, suggesting that the club was falling behind Premier League rivals due to perceived insufficient investment in the squad.
In his comments to Telemundo Deportes, Romero addressed concerns about limited spending and squad depth at Tottenham:
- Romero’s Critique: He pointed to the consistent competitiveness of Manchester City and the continuous strengthening of squads seen at clubs like Liverpool and Chelsea as models for success.
- Call for Accountability: Romero expressed hope that club leadership would identify and address the “true responsible ones” for the club’s recent underperformance.
- Club Potential: He highlighted Tottenham’s inherent potential and infrastructure to be a title-contending club each year, provided necessary changes are implemented.
Tottenham’s Season and Future Outlook
Tottenham are currently facing the prospect of their poorest Premier League season in recent years, positioned 15th in the league standings. However, they remain in contention to end their trophy drought, having reached the Europa League semi-finals after a victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. The potential departure of a key player like Romero could further influence the club’s trajectory in the upcoming season.