Why Barcelona refused to sign Lionel Messi's rash teammate

Barcelona abandoned their pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero during the 2026 summer transfer window following a direct intervention from head coach Hansi Flick, according to reports. 

​The Argentina international subsequently joined Atlético Madrid on August 12, 2026, completing a transfer worth €40 million, including bonuses.

​Barcelona entered the summer market expecting to recruit a centre-back to reinforce their squad following their 2025/26 LALIGA title victory.

​The club initially negotiated a move for Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni before Flick vetoed the operation in May 2026.

​Sporting director Deco then pivoted to Romero, who requested a transfer away from North London.

​According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Flick intervened to stop the pursuit of the 28-year-old, deciding against further negotiations days before the defender agreed to terms with Atlético Madrid.

​Flick informed Deco he was satisfied with his existing defensive personnel, opting to trust internal options to anchor the backline.

​The manager urged the Barcelona sporting department to divert the allocated funds toward other areas of the squad, specifically prioritising investment in the forward line.

​The decision allowed Atlético Madrid to finalise the €40 million acquisition of Romero under manager Diego Simeone.

​Romero has since debuted for his new club, featuring during Atlético Madrid's 2-1 away defeat to Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League on September 9.