Atletico Madrid are inching closer to signing Cristian Romero for a reported fee of £55 million after the defender internally expressed his desire to leave.

According to TBR, Cristian Romero may have played his last game for Tottenham as he nears an exit from the club. The Europa League holders wanted to persuade the defender to continue with the club, however, he has set his sights on playing under Diego Simeone as Atletico Madrid close in on a £55 million transfer.

The season that Tottenham had wouldn’t have allowed anyone to predict they would be playing in the Champions League. Following their 17th-placed finish, Spurs made it to the premier European tournament courtesy of winning the Europa League.

Irrespective of their success in the European competition, some of their key players were tipped to leave the club in the summer with Cristian Romero leading the charge. The Argentine World Cup winner was instrumental in the final against Manchester United, as Daniel Levy was eager to keep hold of him.

Tottenham were eager to keep him for another season, as Levy was prepared to make him the highest-paid player at the club. The report states an offer was indeed presented, but it appears Romero has made his decision and is now poised to leave Spurs.

Romero held conversations with Levy and insisted on departing the team despite Tottenham’s best efforts. The 27-year-old Tottenham star was expected to decide his future at the end of June, and it appears the verdict is out, as he’s currently inching closer to joining Atletico Madrid.

Atletico Madrid to sign Cristian Romero

Atletico Madrid have reportedly made a bid worth £55 million which may have been enough to convince Levy who had initially wanted at least £59 million. Diego Simeone was in direct contact with Romero to persuade the defender to make the switch, as the talks may have worked in Atletico Madrid’s favour.

Signing Romero would be part of a big spending spree at Atletico Madrid, as reports have stated they have a kitty of 200 million to bring in reinforcements. The 27-year-old Tottenham star departing would be a huge blow for the north Londoners, who may have to find the right replacement in the market that fills the void, although they are now poised to complete the permanent transfer of Kevin Danso.