Report: Tottenham complete crucial summer deal to avoid £34.3m Romero exit nightmare

 

 

Tottenham Hotspur have taken a major step in securing their long-term future under Thomas Frank by tying down Cristian Romero to a new contract, a move many believe could prove to be their most important piece of business this summer.

While Spurs have been one of the more active Premier League sides in the current transfer window—already welcoming the arrivals of Mathys Tel, Kota Takai, Mohammed Kudus, and Joao Palhinha—there was a looming concern over the future of Romero, who has become an indispensable figure in Frank’s setup. That uncertainty has now been put to rest with the Argentine defender committing his future to the club.

Busy summer in North London

Tottenham’s summer business is far from complete, with Frank still looking to add reinforcements in three key positions. The most pressing of those is attacking midfield after James Maddison suffered a serious knee injury. Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze is at the top of Spurs’ shortlist, with negotiations ongoing and optimism growing that a deal could soon be struck. Eze himself hinted at an imminent exit after the goalless draw with Chelsea at Selhurst Park last weekend, sparking further speculation that Tottenham may soon get their man.

The club are also weighing up wide attacking options. Talks have taken place over Manchester City winger Savinho, though Pep Guardiola’s decision to keep hold of the Brazilian has complicated Spurs’ pursuit. With depth already present in wide areas, Frank may be forced to consider alternative options should the need for another winger persist.

In defence, Tottenham are keen on bringing in another centre-back, particularly if Luka Vuskovic departs on loan for the 2025/26 campaign. Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié has been linked, though triggering his £52 million release clause would be required to make that deal happen. His teammate Edmond Tapsoba was once a serious Spurs target before the club opted for Micky van de Ven, who has since formed a formidable partnership at the heart of defence with Romero.

Romero signs new contract

That partnership has been the foundation of Tottenham’s recent success, including their Europa League triumph last season, and Spurs fans will be relieved that it will remain intact for the foreseeable future. On Monday evening, the club officially announced Romero’s contract extension, a deal that ensures the 27-year-old remains central to Frank’s long-term plans.

Speculation had been swirling that Romero could depart either this summer or as a free agent at the end of his contract in 2026. In financial terms, his old deal was worth around £8.58 million annually, and had he left at the end of it, Tottenham would effectively have paid out £34.3 million in wages without recouping a transfer fee. By securing fresh terms now, Spurs have avoided that nightmare scenario while also demonstrating their ambition to compete at the highest level.

A statement of intent

Romero’s decision to commit to Spurs is seen as a huge vote of confidence in Frank’s project. The World Cup-winning defender has established himself as a leader both on and off the pitch, and his new role alongside Micky van de Ven and captaincy responsibilities underline just how vital he is to the club’s spine.

The Argentine’s extension is not just a victory for Tottenham in terms of stability but also a strong message to potential suitors that their best players are not for sale. While new signings like Kudus, Tel, and Palhinha may provide added depth and creativity, keeping Romero was arguably the most critical deal of all.

Looking ahead

Tottenham’s transfer business is not yet finished, but regardless of who else comes through the door before the window closes, the renewal of Romero’s contract will stand out as the defining moment of the summer. With the centre-back duo of Romero and van de Ven secured, Spurs can continue to build from a position of strength, confident that their defensive foundation is set for years to come.

In many ways, this is more than just a contract extension—it is a statement that Tottenham, under Thomas Frank, are serious about competing for trophies and building sustained success.