Atletico Madrid have agreed a deal in principle with Tottenham Hotspur to sign central defender Cristian Romero, with the total package worth in the region of £34.2 million (€40m) plus add-ons and a 15 percent sell-on clause.

The Argentina international has been the subject of transfer speculation throughout the summer, despite holding a contract at Spurs until 2029. Atletico had long admired Romero, and it was widely anticipated that Tottenham would sanction his departure if a suitable offer materialised.

A difficult final season at Spurs

Romero endured a turbulent last campaign in north London. The 28-year-old was dismissed twice during Tottenham's Premier League relegation battle and later missed the end of the season through a knee injury.

He also drew criticism from supporters after reports suggested he was poised to watch his boyhood club Belgrano face River Plate in the Argentina Primera Division Apertura final rather than attend Spurs' decisive match against Everton. Romero ultimately appeared at the Everton fixture, the game in which Tottenham secured Premier League survival.

Five years and 124 appearances

Romero leaves Spurs having made 124 appearances across five seasons, contributing 12 goals and collecting four red cards in the Premier League. Inter Milan and Arsenal were also reported to have held interest in the defender before Atletico moved decisively to secure his signature.