Tottenham star Cristian Romero has emerged as a target for Real Madrid
Thomas Frank arrived at Tottenham Hotspur from Brentford this summer to replace Ange Postecoglou as head coach, and immediately identified the defence as an area he wanted to strengthen, with more robustness and depth wanted.
Kevin Danso’s loan deal from FC Lens had an obligation clause that got triggered automatically on June 30, and the club also added Japanese youngster Kota Takai from J-League side Kawasaki Frontale earlier this week. Thomas Frank remains keen on more signings in defence, owing to the uncertain future of Cristian Romero.
For the best part of 2025 thus far, Cristian Romero has been wanted by Atletico Madrid. The Spanish club’s boss Diego Simeone has publicly praised the Spurs defender, calling him a “great player” in June. This has further added to the speculation surrounding the Argentinean’s future at White Hart Lane.
However, on Friday, reports emerged stating that Atletico Madrid have abandoned their pursuit of Cristian Romero and are looking at alternative targets to bolster their defensive unit. Tottenham have rejected Los Rojiblancos’ approach for the 27-year-old and warned them their €55m offer won’t be considered.
With Atletico seemingly out of the race, it is their cross-town rivals who are looking to for the offensive for the centre-back now.
Real Madrid ready to splash big for Cristian Romero
Real Madrid have reportedly now expressed an interest in signing Romero. Atletico cooling their interest has opened the door for Real Madrid to swoop in for the Tottenham star.
The 4-0 humiliation at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final earlier this week has prompted Los Blancos to address their defensive problems. After the signing of Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth in June, they want to sign a strong, experienced partner for the Spanish international.
Now, according to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, Real Madrid are preparing an €80 million offer for Romero. The 2022 World Cup winner has emerged as a top target for Real, as new boss Xabi Alonso looks to patch up a defence that crumbled under pressure in recent months.
The La Liga giants’ sporting management feels strengthening the central defence is “essential” and sees Romero as someone who could “lead its new defensive line” under Xabi Alonso, the report adds.
€80 million for Romero would be difficult to say no for Tottenham
Romero is a valued member of the Tottenham squad and even captained the club to Europa League final win, producing a Man of the Match display against Manchester United. He is easily one of the best defenders in the Premier League, and Spurs certainly want to continue with him.
However, every player has a price, and with him having a contract until 2027 and Real preparing an eye-watering €80 million offer, the Lilywhites would be wise to cash in Romero and replace him with a quality young defender.
