Romero Chose Atlético. Barcelona Are Left with Their Interest

Cristian Romero is officially an Atlético Madrid player. The Argentine centre-back joins from Tottenham for €35 million plus €5 million in add-ons and has signed a contract until June 2031. That brings an end to a story which had repeatedly involved Barcelona throughout the summer.

Only a week ago, Mundo Deportivo reported that Romero was waiting to see whether Barcelona would make a move. Deco had held talks with his agent and rated the defender highly, but Barça had other priorities: a striker, Rodri and the need to complete departures first. Atlético, meanwhile, were actually negotiating with Tottenham.

The ending feels rather familiar. Barcelona had the player on their list; Atlético now have him in their dressing room. For around €40m, Atlético have secured a World Cup winner and an experienced Premier League defender, while Barça can move another name from “interesting option” to the archives.