Argentine central defender Cristian “Cuti” Romero has signed a new contract extension keeping him at the club until the end of the 2028–29 season. The announcement comes amid earlier speculation about his potential departure, as well as significant leadership restructuring at Spurs.
Romero’s new deal will run through the end of the 2028–29 campaign, effectively adding two extra years to his previous contract, which was set to expire in 2027.
The agreement cements Romero’s status not only as a defensive linchpin but also as a figure around whom manager Thomas Frank intends to build the next chapter of the club’s history.
Initially, Romero had suggested in April that he was open to exploring new opportunities, expressing interest in playing in La Liga. This sentiment provoked speculation about Atletico Madrid’s interest in securing the 27-year-old’s signature.
Atletico Madrid reportedly floated a bid in the region of £50 million, though financial constraints ultimately derailed the possibility of a move.
This summer, however, Tottenham moved swiftly and strategically. Shortly after confirming Romero as the club’s new captain — a responsibility previously held by Son Heung-min before his transfer to Los Angeles FC — the club sealed the long-term extension, signaling both a reward for his leadership and a clear message about his importance to the squad.
The timing of the extension is telling. Coming on the heels of his appointment as club captain and just days after Tottenham’s Europa League triumph — where Romero was named Player of the Match in the final against Manchester United — the move reflects the club’s recognition of his critical role both on and off the pitch.
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has been effusive in his praise of the Argentine, highlighting Romero’s leadership qualities and consistent training standards. “There is a big respect for him from the players… I’ve never seen him train that well,” Frank said, underlining the defender’s influence across the squad.
The contract also comes as part of a broader retention strategy. On the same day, right-back Djed Spence also secured a new deal following his breakthrough season.
Together, these moves suggest Tottenham’s intent to lock in rising talent and experiment with continuity and internal progress, even as the club looks to bolster its attack with possible signings like Eberechi Eze.
From a background perspective, Romero’s journey to this point has been one of consistent progression.
Born in Córdoba, Argentina, he began his senior career at Belgrano before moving to Europe, where he played for Genoa and earned acclaim during a loan spell at Atalanta, eventually being named Serie A’s Best Defender in the 2020–21 season.
In August 2021, he joined Tottenham on loan from Atalanta, a move that became permanent in 2022. Since then, he has made over 120 appearances for the club and has contributed not just defensively, but with eight goals and three assists.
His leadership during the 2024–25 Europa League campaign was particularly notable. Stepping into the captaincy in Son’s absence, Romero led the team through to victory in the final, earning Player of the Match honors in the process. He also found the net in the UEFA Super Cup against PSG, further showcasing his presence in pivotal moments.