Tottenham handed major Cristian Romero boost as contract decision ends transfer talk

Cristian Romero has signed a new long-term contract until 2029 with Tottenham Hotspur after being made the club's new captain.

The 27-year-old World Cup winner was named by Thomas Frank as his new skipper following Son Heung-min's departure to LAFC and Romero has impressed the new head coach since his first day at the club with his attitude and performances in training sessions. The centre-back, who had been linked with a move to Atletico Madrid this summer, has now decided to extend his contract with the north London outfit with his previous deal in its final two years.

"I would say I’ve worked with him now closely for more than five weeks, I’ve seen a very, very committed player who’s trained very well. The staff have said to me they’ve never seen him train that well," said Frank. "He’s in a very good place. I see a player that will want to lead the team and push the team."

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The new head coach wanted the two-time Copa America winner to be around for the long-term and continue to grow as a leader.

"I think when you name a captain it’s because you think he’s the best that can help the team no matter what now and also in the future," he said. "It’s not really linked with the contract situation. Of course he’s a very good player so I want him to stay longer.

"I see a very big and very good player. What I like about him and why I have chosen him as captain is his leadership qualities on the pitch, there is a big respect for him from the players. Off the pitch as well he also sets the standards, but it’s fair to say, he’s 27 and there are a few older than 27.

"When I was 27 of course I thought I could do everything but I also found out that as a leader I am 1,000 per cent better now so he also needs to learn and become better and better so I will do my best to guide him."

Romero was proud to be handed the armband by the Dane, saying in a rare English interview for the club: "I’m very happy to be the first team captain of the club. It’s amazing for me. Today, we (he and Frank) spoke before training. Maybe before the start of the season I’ve spoken a lot with him. He’s a good coach and I said, ‘thank you’ for this, also.

"It’s a big responsibility. I spoke with the players and tomorrow is also another big night for the club, for the players, for the fans, we need to enjoy this moment."

On social media, he posted after that announcement: "Today begins a new season for us, one that is truly special to me. Becoming the first [team] captain of this beautiful club is an incredible honour.

"I arrived here four years ago with a single dream: to write my name into the club’s history and leave my mark by winning a trophy, and I achieved that. Now, a new journey is in front of us. A beautiful season lies ahead, and together we will work to relive the joy of that unforgettable day, May 21, 2025.

"Whatever happens along the way, I ask only one thing: stay united. There will be highs and lows, but together, nothing is impossible. Come on you Spurs."