Tottenham are set to let captain Cristian Romero go at the end of the season as part of a major shake-up aimed at changing the club’s culture.
Despite the defender’s central role in the team, Spurs are planning to move on from several high-profile stars this summer to fund a major rebuild, the Telegraph reported.
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The decision comes at a critical time for the club, which has endured a disastrous domestic season that saw it unexpectedly embroiled in a Premier League relegation battle.
Tottenham believe selling Cristian Romero is ‘best for all parties’
The report claims that while Romero remains an important asset on the pitch, club bosses are increasingly convinced that parting ways is “in the best interest of all parties”.
The Argentine international has been dissatisfied this season, publicly expressing dissatisfaction with the hierarchy surrounding the club’s direction.
The report adds that finances also play an important role in this decision. Chief executive Vinay Venkatesham warned in January that Tottenham were “not exempt” from profit and sustainability rules, pointing out that big summer signings would need to be balanced against significant sales.
Signing Romero, who is worth more than £60 million, would give Spurs the cash they need to rebuild a team that has underperformed under several managers.
Romero is wanted by Atletico Madrid
Romero is set to return to the starting lineup tonight in the Champions League last-16 match against Atletico Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
He has missed the last four Premier League games due to suspension, but is eligible for European competition.
The fight is seen as a potential “audition” for the 27-year-old. Atletico manager Diego Simeone has long admired his compatriot and is keen to bring him to the Spanish capital to lead the defence.
Spurs currently sit 16th in the Premier League, so a move to perennial Champions League contenders like Atletico is expected to appeal to the World Cup winners looking for a summer exit.
They could face stiff competition from rivals Real Madrid, who also have strong ties to the World Cup winners.
Romero’s time at Tottenham
Romero joined Tottenham from Atalanta in 2021, making 151 appearances and scoring 13 goals.
His aggressive, front-foot defense made him a fan favorite, but his indiscipline often left the team vulnerable.
The club captain’s impending summer departure signals the end of an era and the beginning of a ruthless new chapter in north London, as caretaker manager Igor Tudor struggles to keep the club at the top level.
