Atletico Madrid are aiming to sign a top central defender for the second successive summer, and their top target is in the Premier League. And although a deal will be tricky to pull off, there is a belief that they can get it over the line.
The expected departures of Axel Witsel and Cesar Azpilicueta mean that Atleti would only have Jose Maria Gimenez and Robin Le Normand as centre-back options for next season, given that Clement Lenglet is projected to return to Barcelona when his loan spell comes to an end – although it is expected that they will try to keep him at the Metropolitano on a permanent basis.
But even if this happens, Atleti need another option in the centre of defence, and as per Diario AS, their top target is Tottenham Hotspur and Argentina star Cristian Romero.
Romero is keen as Spurs’ best defender, and in order to stave off Atleti’s interest, they are hoping to agree a new contract with him. But that could be difficult as the 27-year-old is reported to be very interested in a summer move to Atleti, with this revelation coming weeks after he publicly revealed his desire to play in La Liga.
Atleti believe they can sign Romero for a fee in the region of €40-50m, although at this stage, Spurs are not prepared to entertain any offers below €70m. But if the player pushes for a move to the Spanish capital, they could be forced to negotiate.
🚨🇦🇷 Atlético Madrid would like to complete a deal for Cuti Romero in time for the Club World Cup.
The club is willing to pay a fee of between €40m and €50m plus add-ons. Tottenham wants €70m.@diarioas pic.twitter.com/lUZDx1Zur3
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) April 28, 2025
Atletico Madrid have not ruled out signing Romero in time for him to be involved at the Club World Cup this summer, and a deal could be done during the newly-created transfer window that runs from the 1st of June to the 10th. They certainly appear confident of getting their man, but it will not be straightforward.