Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero but have been warned about his lack of discipline. The Argentine center-back is reportedly expected to leave Spurs this summer and if he is playing his final season in North London he's ending it in controversy.
Romero started for Spurs in their 2-0 loss to Manchester United on Saturday. His team were performing well in a closely-fought battle until the 29th minute when he recklessly fouled former Madrid midfielder Casemiro.
The Brazilian was left in pain after his studs connected with his ankle. Romero was sent off for the foul and his side went on to lose the game with 10 men.
The 27-year-old's sending off comes after weeks of tension between the Argentine and the club's owners. He has called them out several times on social media.
Man United heroes on 'liability' Romero
Romero's red card was his second this season and he has also picked up more yellow cards than any other Premier League player. His aggressive playing style has always been a concern and it cost his side at Old Trafford.
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand, who is regarded as one of the best defensive talents in English football history, reacted to his sending off in dismay. He wrote on X:
"Romero is a liability."
Romero has made 28 appearances across competitions, posting six goals and four assists. When he hasn't lost his head he has been one of the best defenders in the league.
Ferdinand's former United teammate Dimitar Berbatov, who spent several years at Spurs, was also dissapointed with the Spurs skipper (via The United Faithfuls):
"He believes he's so good to get away with whatever he wants. That is ignorance.."
🚨🗣 - Dimitar Berbatov on Cristian Romero's red card: "He believes he's so good to get away with whatever he wants. That is ignorance.."
— UF (@UtdFaithfuls) February 7, 2026
Ian Wright: "He's out of control." pic.twitter.com/52ESoEMSRp
Romero's indiscipline will be a concern for Madrid given reports suggesting he is on Florentino Perez's wishlist. The club's president is thought to be an admirer of the Argentine who won the World Cup back in 2022.
Real Madrid must heed advice over Romero
Madrid are heading into the summer transfer window with the intentions of signing two center-backs. They need players who they can rely on and who can handle their temperament given the pressure that comes with playing for the La Liga side.
Romero's constant behavioral issues should be factored in to any decision the club makes over a potential pursuit. He is clearly a liability despite his undeniable defensive abilities.
That includes off the pitch where he's made his feelings clear over management at the Premier League club. There are many options for Madrid to consider this summer and Romero might just start tumbling down the shortlist if he continues in such fashion.