Atletico Madrid have entered discussions with Tottenham Hotspur over a potential transfer for club captain Cristian Romero, with the Spanish side making their most serious move yet for the Argentina international.

Romero, 28, extended his contract at Spurs last August, signing a fresh four-year deal, but he is now widely expected to depart north London before the summer transfer window closes.

Atletico manager Diego Simeone has long had the centre-back in his sights, and the Madrid club are believed to be pushing forward with renewed determination to land their top defensive target. Sources indicate that agreeing personal terms with Romero would not pose a significant hurdle, and Tottenham are fully aware of the Spanish club's interest.

Inter Milan also in the running

Atletico are not alone in their pursuit. Inter Milan have also registered interest in the defender, adding a competitive edge to the situation as Romero's future continues to attract attention from Europe's elite clubs.

The defender capped an impressive winter on the international stage, featuring in all seven of Argentina's matches as they reached the FIFA World Cup 2026 final last month. Argentina ultimately fell to Spain in that showpiece.

Romero's final months at Spurs last season were disrupted by a knee injury that ruled him out of their run-in, a period in which the club narrowly avoided relegation on the final day of the campaign. He also received two red cards across the course of the season as Spurs finished in 17th place.

Van de Ven closing in on new deal

Manager Roberto de Zerbi recently signalled an open stance on player departures, stating he would "respect the will" of any squad member who wished to move on.

On a more positive note for Tottenham supporters, fellow centre-back Micky van de Ven is reported to be on the verge of signing a new five-year contract with the club, providing some defensive stability amid the uncertainty surrounding Romero.