‘I had a few conversations’ – Atletico Madrid star confirms ‘one of the best’ almost left Tottenham
Tottenham have experienced the heartache of losing their best players in the past, and supporters will worry that history could repeat itself.
In recent months, Spurs centre-back Micky van de Ven has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, with his agent adding fuel to the speculation.
Van de Ven has emerged as one of the Premier League’s best defenders, and with skyrocketing form comes the threat of the Dutchman leaving.
Other important players have also been touted with an exit, including goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who has drawn interest from Inter Milan.
Vicario’s form has suffered since Thomas Frank joined the club, while Cristian Romero’s has improved, and he could leave in the future.
Julian Alvarez tried to persuade Cristian Romero to join Atletico Madrid
In the summer, it was well-documented that Atletico Madrid wanted to sign Romero, with Spurs valuing the Argentine at around £60million.
A transfer never came to fruition, and Romero was named Spurs’ new captain before signing a long-term contract until June 2029.
News of him committing his future to the club was music to supporters’ ears, whilst Atletico forward Julian Alvarez wasn’t too pleased after he tried to prise him to Spain.
Alvarez, who plays alongside Romero for Argentina, labelled the 27-year-old as ‘one of the best’ defenders in the world and expressed his desire to share a dressing room with him at club level.
“Yes, yes. Obviously, I would have liked to. Cuti is one of the best defenders in the world. I spend time with him for the national team, and I really think he’s a star, a competitive animal, very strong defensively,” he said in Friday’s edition of Marca.
“And yes, I had a few conversations with him, and it didn’t happen for various reasons, but hopefully one day we’ll be able to play together.”
Romero loves Tottenham
Once blasted for his hot-headedness and tendency to overstep the mark, Romero has matured into his role as captain, becoming one of Frank’s most invaluable talents.
The Argentine has even started to take goalscoring responsibility, netting a brace during Tottenham’s 2-2 draw against Newcastle United recently.
So, the prospect of him ever leaving will hurt Spurs fans, but fortunately, he’s already made it clear how much he loves the club.
Speaking after signing a new contract in August, Romero said: “Honestly, the last two weeks, first captain, now a new contract with the Club, I’m very, very happy.
“For me, it’s a fantastic decision. Now we start together again. I’m very happy at the club. For me, this club is the best in the world. For this, I extend my contract.”
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