Aug 12, 2026

Cristian Romero Completes €40m Atlético Madrid Move from Tottenham Hotspur

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in sport

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London / Madrid – August 12, 2026— Atlético Madrid has agreed to a deal in principle with Tottenham Hotspur to sign Argentina center-back Cristian Romero in a transfer worth €40 million (£34.2 million) including add-ons, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed.

The move ends months of speculation surrounding the 28-year-old defender’s future and finally delivers Romero the La Liga opportunity he has long desired.

According to multiple reports, the package includes a 15 per cent sell-on clause in Tottenham’s favour. Romero has already agreed personal terms with Atlético and is expected to undergo a medical before the transfer is formally completed.

Romano noted that an earlier Inter Milan deal collapsed in July, while Barcelona opted not to pursue the player in recent days. Tottenham also made clear they would not sell their captain to North London rivals Arsenal.

Romero joined Spurs from Atalanta in 2021, initially on loan before a permanent deal. Over five seasons he made more than 150 appearances, scored regularly from set pieces, and became club captain.

He was a key figure during Tottenham’s difficult 2025-26 Premier League campaign and represented Argentina at the 2026 World Cup.

Known for his aggressive, no-nonsense style and leadership, the defender earned a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most combative center-backs—a profile that fits perfectly with Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid.

Atlético have tracked Romero for several windows. Simeone has long admired the Argentine’s intensity and defensive steel.

With squad adjustments this summer, the Spanish club moved decisively once finances allowed, outmanoeuvring other interested parties.

For Tottenham, the sale generates funds and allows a defensive reset after a challenging season, while retaining a future financial interest through the sell-on clause.

Romero is expected to link up with his new teammates shortly after completing formalities. For Atlético supporters, the arrival of a World Cup-winning, battle-hardened leader represents a significant reinforcement for the campaigns ahead.

The transfer marks the end of an intense, passionate chapter in north London and the beginning of a new one in the Spanish capital — one that both player and club appear ready to embrace.