Tottenham Hotspur is maintaining a firm stance against Atletico Madrid's persistent pursuit of key defender Cristian Romero (27).
The British 'Telegraph' reported on the 26th (Korean time) that "Tottenham will not respond at all to Atletico's attempts to recruit Romero," noting that newly appointed head coach Thomas Frank (52) is in a difficult situation as the season opener approaches.
Romero is scheduled to return to team training in the second week of July, but his dissatisfaction with the club's management style still appears unresolved. In particular, Diego Simeone, the head coach leading Atletico, fueled the atmosphere by directly mentioning that "Romero is a player anyone would covet."
It is known that Coach Simeone has been in regular contact with Romero, who has also previously stated, "I want to play in La Liga someday," leading analysts to suggest that the transfer rumors may not merely be a matter of interest.
Tottenham has not yet officially stated its position, but the 'Telegraph' emphasized that Chairman Daniel Levy is not easily swayed by external pressure. Romero's contract is valid until 2027, so Atletico is expected to propose a substantial transfer fee to make the transfer happen.
The concerns facing Coach Frank are not limited to this. On the day he officially announced his appointment to Tottenham, Romero left a thank-you message on social media directed at former head coach Ange Postecoglou, subtly excluding the club's management. At that time, he expressed strong support by saying, "I thank the coach for making a way amid numerous obstacles," but there was no mention of the club's internal personnel.
This is not the first time Romero has expressed such dissatisfaction. In March, he only expressed gratitude for recovery to the Argentine national team medical staff, and last September, he indirectly revealed his discontent with the club's management related to the controversy over the lack of charter flight support after international matches.
Nevertheless, Romero played a crucial leadership role both on and off the field last season, serving as vice-captain just below captain Son Heung-min until the Europa League final. Before the final match against Manchester United, he led the players in a team bonding ceremony and initiated barbecue gatherings during the season to foster team unity, establishing himself as a highly respected figure within the team.
The 'Telegraph' also reported on an interview from April in which Romero stated about his future after this season, "I haven't had specific discussions with my agent yet, but I'm always thinking in a progressive direction," adding, "The thought of wanting to play in La Liga remains."
Meanwhile, team captain Son Heung-min is also reported to have shown subtle hints of parting ways with the club immediately after the final game of the season, raising the possibility that both key leaders may leave the team at the same time.
While James Maddison and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario remain key players on the team, strengthening leadership-level resources capable of filling the void left by Son Heung-min and Romero has emerged as a priority issue that must be resolved under Coach Frank's regime.
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