Transfer Rumour Unconfirmed · Early speculationFootball.LondonUnverified source· 13 Aug 2026
De Zerbi explains why Spurs had to sell Romero and Spence
Two World Cup stars are leaving Tottenham for cut-price fees, and their former boss has already justified the exits.
C. Romero
player
Player
Cristian Romero
From
Tottenham
To
Atletico Madrid
Fee
£34m
What happened. Tottenham are set to sell Cristian Romero and Djed Spence to European clubs for low fees, with Romero joining Atletico Madrid for £34m and Spence heading to Inter for £27m.
- Romero is Spurs captain and played 32 times last season.
- Spence made 44 appearances for the north London side.
- Both signed long-term contracts last year but are leaving now.
“Such moves must just go through.”
— Roberto De Zerbi
The sales raise questions about Tottenham's transfer strategy as they offload key players for less than their replacements cost.
In this story
Tottenham
D. Spence
R. De ZerbiMore to read
CaughtOffside
Tottenham set for further clear-out as duo on the verge of completing transfers
CaughtOffside
De Zerbi explains what he told Djed Spence amid uncertainty over his Tottenham future
BBC Sport
De Zerbi wants to convince Spence to stay at Spurs
GiveMeSport
Roberto De Zerbi's Dream Tottenham XI vs Brentford After 3 More Signings Made
The Guardian
Atlético Madrid agree £34.1m deal for Tottenham’s Cristian Romero
Sky Sports
Atletico agree deal to sign Spurs captain Romero