Atlético Madrid is making bold moves in the transfer market with a clear goal: strengthening its defense following their disappointing exit from the Club World Cup. As part of their rebuilding strategy, Cristian “Cuti” Romero, the current Tottenham Hotspur center-back, has emerged as the top target for the 2025–2026 season. If completed, the deal would not only be a major investment but also a blow to Real Madrid, who had also shown interest in the Argentine defender.

Simeone’s top defensive target: an elite center-back

With Axel Witsel leaving and the backline in need of reinforcements, Atlético is ready to make a big financial push to land a defensive leader. While the club's sporting director, Carlos Bucero, is already close to signing Álex Baena, Johnny Cardoso, and Matteo Ruggeri, the focus remains on closing the deal for Cuti Romero.

Coach Diego Simeone hasn’t hidden his desire to work with Romero. “Would I like to have Cuti Romero? Of course! He’s a fantastic player,” he recently admitted. Such direct praise is rare for Simeone, underscoring how essential Romero is to his defensive plans moving forward.

The negotiation won’t be easy. Tottenham’s president, Daniel Levy, has set the asking price at €70 million, while Atlético Madrid has reportedly offered around €60 million, hoping to reach an agreement, especially considering the London club’s current financial strain. British media report that Spurs are facing over £250 million in debt, which could pressure them into selling.

Tensions between Romero and the Tottenham board have also surfaced after the departure of manager Ange Postecoglou, and the Argentine’s absence from the club’s new kit launch has fueled speculation about his possible exit.

From the player's side, there is a strong interest in returning to Spain and joining the Argentine core in Atlético Madrid, where he would share the locker room with Rodrigo De Paul, Nahuel Molina, Ángel Correa, Giuliano Simeone, and newly signed Julián Álvarez.

If the Romero deal falls through, Atlético is considering Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen as a backup option. The Ecuadorian defender has a lower release clause and fits the club’s requirements for youth, versatility, and international experience.

The race to sign a top-tier center-back is on, and Atlético Madrid is determined to strike first—leaving Real Madrid out of the picture.