Julián Álvarez has shed new light on Atlético Madrid’s failed attempt to sign Tottenham defender Cristian Romero last summer, revealing he spoke directly with his Argentina teammate during the transfer saga. In a wide-ranging interview with Marca, the former Manchester City striker admitted he was disappointed the move never materialised and hinted openly at wanting to reunite with Romero at club level one day.
The Spanish club made Romero a priority target ahead of the 2024/25 season, but Tottenham stood firm. Before Atlético made their approach, Spurs had already finalised a contract extension keeping the centre-back at the club until 2029 — a clear message that they viewed him as non-negotiable. Reports in Spain and Argentina confirmed that Atlético’s advances were rejected outright.
Álvarez: “I would have liked to play with him at Atlético”
Asked how he experienced the situation from his perspective as Romero’s international teammate, Álvarez gave an honest response that underlined how highly he rates the Spurs defender.
“Yes, yes. Obviously, I would have liked to. Cuti is one of the best defenders in the world. I spend time with him for the national team, and I really think he’s a star, a competitive animal, very strong defensively.” — Julián Álvarez
He went on to confirm he had “a few conversations” with Romero during the period in question, but admitted the transfer simply “didn’t happen for various reasons.” Even so, Álvarez left the door open for a future reunion:
“Hopefully one day we’ll be able to play together.” — Julián Álvarez
Why the deal was impossible for Atlético
Romero’s contract extension last August effectively removed any realistic chance of Atlético signing him in the near term. Tottenham view the Argentine as a core leader of Thomas Frank’s project and have shown no willingness to negotiate. Having tied him down until 2029, Spurs are in a position of absolute control — both sporting and financial.
This is why the Julián Álvarez Tottenham transfer talks matter: they reveal how admired Romero has become among elite players, and how his international relationships naturally fuel interest from clubs across Europe.
This is admiration, not a transfer hint — but Spurs must stay alert
In our view, Álvarez’s comments reflect genuine admiration rather than an attempt to spark a move. These are two players who share a deep national-team bond. However, although some Tottenham fans may shrug off the quotes, the nuance shouldn’t be ignored: when elite players openly praise and privately contact a teammate during a transfer saga, it shows how valuable that player has become across Europe.
Having followed high-profile pursuits involving Argentina internationals, this type of relationship-based interest often resurfaces later — especially if circumstances shift. Tottenham are in total control today, but they must protect that position by continuing to match Romero’s ambitions on the pitch. Stability at Champions League level is essential.
A fair counterpoint: Romero has repeatedly reaffirmed his happiness at Spurs, and his long-term contract is not a negotiation tactic. For now, there is no hint of dissatisfaction.
Why Álvarez’s words still matter
Even if not intended as a transfer push, Álvarez’s admiration reinforces Romero’s growing reputation as one of Europe’s best defenders. Spurs can use this as leverage when building the squad: elite players want to play alongside leaders like Romero. His presence is a recruitment asset as much as it is a defensive one.
Key Insights
- Julián Álvarez confirmed speaking with Cristian Romero during Atlético’s transfer attempts.
- He called Romero “one of the best defenders in the world.”
- Tottenham rejected Atlético’s move and extended Romero’s contract until 2029.
- Álvarez hopes to play with Romero again at club level in the future.
- Spurs remain in full control of the defender’s long-term future.
What’s Next
Romero is set to continue as a pillar of Tottenham’s defence as they play Nottingham Forest next in the Premier League. Atlético’s interest is unlikely to disappear completely, but any possibility of a move depends on a dramatic shift in Spurs’ stance — or Romero’s own ambitions — neither of which appears imminent.
👉 Spurs fans — do Álvarez’s comments worry you, or is this simply friendly admiration between teammates?
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