STATUS: OFFICIAL TRANSFER

Atlético Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur confirmed on 15 August 2026 that Cristian “Cuti” Romero has completed a permanent move to the Spanish club. The Argentina defender has signed with Atlético until 30 June 2031.

Atlético’s announcement states the contract length, while Tottenham confirms that the two clubs reached an agreement for the transfer. Neither club disclosed the fee, payment structure or possible bonuses; ON MEDIA.AL therefore does not present any reported figure as an official price.

FROM TOTTENHAM CAPTAIN TO ATLÉTICO’S DEFENCE

Romero leaves after five seasons in London. Tottenham say he made 156 appearances for the club and was appointed captain for the 2025/26 campaign. He played 32 times in all competitions last season.

One of the defining moments of his Spurs career was the club’s UEFA Europa League triumph in 2024/25. Atlético add that the Argentine was named the competition’s best player and the best player in the final that season.

For Diego Simeone’s side, the transfer adds a centre-back with experience in the Premier League, Serie A, European competition and international football. Atlético describe the 28-year-old as a physical defender who reads danger quickly, attacks the ball decisively and brings leadership on the pitch.

ROMERO’S CAREER PATH

Romero began his professional career with Belgrano in Argentina. He later moved to Italy, representing Genoa and Atalanta while also being under contract with Juventus. Before his permanent transfer to Tottenham, he was named Serie A’s best defender during his time with Atalanta.

Across five seasons with Tottenham, Atlético list 156 matches, 13 goals and seven assists. Those figures come from the clubs’ official transfer announcements.

At international level, Romero won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina, lifted the Copa América in 2021 and 2024 and finished as a runner-up at the 2026 World Cup. That record immediately makes him one of the most decorated players in Atlético’s defensive group.

WHAT IS CONFIRMED AND WHAT REMAINS UNDISCLOSED

The permanent transfer, the new club and the contract through 30 June 2031 are confirmed. The fee, salary, bonuses and other financial clauses have not been officially published.

This is a completed transfer rather than reported negotiations or interest: statements from both clubs place the deal firmly in the “official” category.

REPORTING BASIS

ON MEDIA.AL wrote this article from scratch on 15 August 2026 using the official announcements from Atlético Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur. Only facts confirmed by the clubs are presented as completed.