Cristian Romero sends heartfelt Tottenham message ahead of Atletico Madrid move

Cristian Romero posted an emotional farewell message ahead of his expected £34 million move to Atletico Madrid.

The Argentina international is preparing to bring his five-year spell in north London to an end despite only signing a new contract and being appointed Spurs captain last summer.

Romero described Tottenham as his "home" and reflected on finally helping the club lift a trophy before saying part of his heart will remain with Spurs.

Romero announced his departure in a lengthy message on Instagram on Friday evening.

The centre-back thanked Tottenham's supporters, teammates, coaches and staff while reflecting on the highs and lows of his time at the club.

"Today, I say goodbye to a place that, for five seasons, was much more than a club. It was my home, my challenge and the place where my family and I built such an important part of our lives."

One achievement clearly holds particular importance for Romero.

The defender helped Tottenham end their long wait for silverware, playing a major role in their Europa League triumph.

"When I arrived, I had a clear dream: to leave my name in this club's history."

Romero added that he wanted to achieve that through hard work and by helping Spurs lift a trophy again.

"And we did it."

Romero's five seasons at Spurs were not always straightforward.

The Argentine acknowledged as much in his farewell but stressed that he does not want the difficult periods to define how he remembers his Tottenham career.

"The journey wasn't perfect, but I don't want that to define my goodbye."

Instead, Romero chose to focus on the trophies, relationships and support he experienced during his time in north London.

He also addressed Tottenham supporters directly, thanking them for their backing throughout his five seasons.

"I know I wasn't perfect, but one thing gives me peace: I always gave everything. I defended this shirt with pride and with all my heart."

His final message underlined the connection he believes will remain even after leaving.

"I'm leaving the club, but a part of my heart will always remain here."

Romero's public farewell effectively confirms his Tottenham career is over as he prepares to join Atletico Madrid.

The Spanish club are expected to pay around £34m for the defender.

His departure comes only a year after Tottenham handed him a new contract and made him captain, representing a significant change for Roberto De Zerbi's squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Spurs must now move forward without one of their most experienced defenders and their captain, while Romero prepares for a new challenge in La Liga.

Romero's transfer to Atletico Madrid is now expected to be finalised, with his farewell removing any remaining doubt surrounding his departure.

For Tottenham, attention turns to life without their captain as De Zerbi finalises his squad for the new season.

Romero, meanwhile, is preparing to close a five-year chapter in north London and begin his next challenge with Atletico Madrid.