Report: Tottenham defender on Real Madrid radar but contract could block move | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s Romero Interest is Real, But Tottenham Hold the Cards

Real Madrid are in the market for defensive reinforcements, and as Ben Jacobs of TEAMtalk reports, they’ve got their eyes on Cristian Romero. The Tottenham centre-back is one of three names on Madrid’s shortlist as they seek to bolster their backline after injuries to David Alaba and Eder Militao exposed a worrying lack of depth.

“Real Madrid have drawn up a three-man shortlist of centre-back targets and a move for Tottenham star Cristian Romero is a concrete possibility, TEAMtalk understands.”

But while Madrid’s interest is serious, Spurs are in no rush to sell. Romero’s contract runs until 2027, and TEAMtalk confirms that Tottenham value him at over £60m. Unlike some reports, there is no release clause in his deal, meaning Spurs hold all the power in negotiations.

Romero is on Madrid’s Radar, But Not the Only Option

Madrid’s list isn’t just about Romero. Alongside the Argentine, they’ve identified Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah as alternative targets.

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Branthwaite, an emerging defensive talent in the Premier League, won’t come cheap—Everton are expected to demand over £70m for his services. Tah, on the other hand, could be a bargain option, with his contract set to expire this summer, allowing Madrid to snap him up on a free transfer.

Despite Romero’s inconsistencies at times this season, Tottenham have no interest in letting him leave. With Ange Postecoglou keen to strengthen his defence rather than weaken it, Spurs remain determined to keep hold of their key defender.

Madrid Can Offer Romero What Spurs Can’t—For Now

Champions League football. That’s the key difference between Madrid and Tottenham right now. If Spurs fail to win the Europa League, they could be out of Europe entirely next season. Madrid, meanwhile, are not just Champions League regulars—they are serial winners of the competition.

As TEAMtalk puts it, “Naturally, Madrid would be able to offer the centre-back Champions League football, and if Tottenham fail to win the Europa League, they’re set to miss out on European football altogether next term.”

This will be Madrid’s biggest bargaining chip. If Romero wants to continue playing at the highest level, a move to the Bernabéu could be tempting. But Spurs remain in a strong financial position, with no pressure to sell under Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR). That means any Madrid approach will have to be substantial to even turn Tottenham’s head.

Tottenham’s Own Defensive Plans

Rather than selling a key player, Spurs are actively looking to bring in defensive reinforcements. Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace remains a target, and another bid for the England international could be launched in the coming months.

That means Madrid’s pursuit of Romero isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. Tottenham don’t need to sell, and the player himself isn’t pushing for an exit. Madrid may like the idea of Romero, but whether Spurs will entertain the idea is an entirely different question.

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For Spurs fans, this report is both a compliment and a concern. It’s a compliment because it shows just how highly rated Romero is—one of the best clubs in world football see him as a key target. But it’s a concern because, historically, when Madrid come calling, they tend to get their man.

There are, however, reasons to remain optimistic. Romero isn’t agitating for a move, which is crucial. Unlike past Tottenham stars who eventually left—Modric, Bale, even Kane—there’s no clear sign he’s unhappy or pushing for a change. His contract until 2027 gives Spurs leverage, and there’s no urgent financial need to sell.

Also, the fact that Spurs are looking to add defenders rather than sell them suggests a clear plan. If they want to challenge for the top four and trophies, they need players like Romero, not to replace them.

Madrid may test the waters, but unless they come in with an astronomical offer, Spurs have every reason to stand firm.