Atletico Madrid have signed Argentina international and 2022 World Cup-winning centre-back Cristian Romero from Tottenham Hotspur for a reported €40 million ($46 million), including add-ons.
“Romero signs for our club until June 30, 2031,” Atlético said in a statement on Saturday.
The 28-year-old defender becomes Atletico’s fourth signing of the summer, following Alejandro Grimaldo, Kang-in Lee and Morten Hjulmand.
Romero, who was part of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad, also featured in the team that lost last month’s World Cup final to Spain.
He said goodbye to Tottenham supporters on Friday after five years at the north London club. Romero made 156 appearances for Spurs and was named man of the match when they ended a 17-year trophy drought by beating Manchester United to win the 2025 Europa League.
Despite serving several suspensions during his time at Tottenham, Romero reflected positively on his spell at the club, acknowledging that “the journey wasn’t perfect” but saying he was leaving with a “heart full of memories” and “enormous pride”.
His move to Madrid comes days after compatriot and fellow World Cup-winning defender Nahuel Molina left Atletico for Serie A side Roma in a deal reportedly worth €17 million.
AFP
