Report: Could Tottenham Lose Key Defender to Real Madrid | OneFootball

Tottenham’s £150m Dilemma: Can Spurs Keep Cristian Romero Amid Real Madrid Interest?

Tottenham Hotspur may soon face a battle to retain one of their star defenders as Real Madrid’s interest in Cristian Romero intensifies. The Spanish giants, known for poaching elite talent, have set their sights on the Argentine, with sources indicating that Romero may push for the move if Madrid come calling next summer. For Spurs, the prospect of losing Romero—a critical piece of Ange Postecoglou’s plans—is a scenario they would rather avoid. Yet, if Real Madrid raises the stakes, Tottenham could face an uphill fight to keep their defensive lynchpin.

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Real Madrid’s Renewed Interest in Spurs’ Defensive Star

Romero’s growing desire to test himself in La Liga may see him reconsider his future at Tottenham. Although under contract until 2026 and earning £165,000 weekly, he could be tempted by the allure of Madrid’s iconic Santiago Bernabeu. Reports from GiveMeSport suggest that Romero “would push for a big-money transfer” should Madrid pursue him. The timing couldn’t be worse for Spurs, as they seek to build stability and end their trophy drought under Postecoglou.

Madrid’s long-standing admiration for Romero reportedly dates back to last season. Although they initially balked at Tottenham’s £150 million valuation, the La Liga leaders are expected to test the waters again next summer. Spurs, meanwhile, are working to secure Romero’s commitment with a new deal, possibly elevating him to the top of their wage bill alongside Heung-min Son, who currently earns £190,000 per week.

Why Romero is Key to Tottenham’s Ambitions

Since joining Spurs permanently in 2022 from Atalanta for £43 million, Romero has cemented himself as one of the Premier League’s standout defenders. His aggressive style, composure on the ball, and leadership qualities have quickly made him indispensable. Postecoglou’s tactical system, built on structured pressing and swift transitions, relies heavily on a secure defence—a role Romero has embraced and excelled in.

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Spurs’ willingness to improve Romero’s terms underscores his importance to the club’s future. Their ambition to compete domestically and in Europe hinges significantly on retaining talents like Romero. However, as Madrid intensifies its search for defensive reinforcements—preferring Romero over Arsenal’s William Saliba—the pressure mounts on Tottenham to hold firm or face yet another high-profile departure to Los Blancos.

Spurs Offer Big Wages to Fend Off Real Madrid

In a bid to fend off Madrid’s advances, Tottenham are reportedly prepared to make Romero their joint-highest earner. This would place him level with Son and ahead of James Maddison, who currently earns less. Despite Spurs’ determination to keep their star defender, GiveMeSport reports that “Romero’s refusal to rule out the possibility of joining Real Madrid is resulting in them having to remain patient.”

The club hopes that a lucrative contract will sway Romero, but as long as Madrid remains in the picture, there’s an inherent risk that Spurs might lose one of their prized assets. With Real Madrid positioning themselves as a long-term admirer, Tottenham’s challenge is not merely financial; it’s also about convincing Romero that his future and ambitions are best served in North London.

Real Madrid and the £150 Million Price Tag

The allure of the Bernabeu has historically proven irresistible for some of Tottenham’s finest, as seen with Gareth Bale and Luka Modric. Madrid’s last attempt to enquire about Romero was met with a staggering £150 million valuation from Spurs, a figure that temporarily warded off a formal offer. However, Madrid’s determination to reinforce their squad for the 2025 season might prompt them to return with an enticing proposal that could shake Spurs’ resolve.

Photo: IMAGO

For Tottenham, Romero’s departure would not only weaken their defence but also deal a significant blow to Postecoglou’s rebuilding project. Yet, holding onto the Argentine amid Real Madrid’s persistent interest remains an uphill struggle. If Madrid chooses to seriously pursue Romero next summer, Tottenham will need more than financial incentives to convince him to stay.

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A Disappointed Spurs Fan’s Take on Romero’s Potential Move to Real Madrid

The Argentine’s defensive contributions have been crucial to Spurs’ resurgence under Postecoglou, and his potential departure would feel like a step backwards. Losing Romero to Madrid would echo past frustrations, with Modric and Bale also making similar moves to the Spanish capital.

Romero’s tough, no-nonsense style has endeared him to fans, who see him as a linchpin in a defence that has often struggled for consistency. Watching a player like Romero go after just a few seasons would raise questions about Tottenham’s ambition and their ability to retain top talent. Real Madrid may offer prestige, but for many fans, it’s hard to understand why players would leave when Spurs are finally making progress.

If Tottenham can’t keep hold of Romero despite offering him top wages, fans will worry that no player is beyond Madrid’s reach. Romero’s exit would not only damage Spurs defensively but also test the loyalty of supporters who want to believe the club is building for a successful future. Retaining Romero is about more than a single player—it’s about proving that Tottenham can keep their stars and compete at the highest level.