Tottenham’s refusal to loan Radu Dragusin to Roma keeps Spurs’ defensive depth intact and likely forces Roma to target alternative centre-backs. Punters might avoid backing Roma to tighten defensively immediately and instead consider Roma goals markets or Spurs to concede more in the short term.
Spurs Block Dragusin Loan as January Window Heats Up
Radu Dragusin’s proposed January switch to Roma has been turned down by Tottenham, keeping the 23-year-old at Spurs for now. Dragusin, who moved from Genoa to Spurs in January 2024 for around £21.5m, was largely a backup before an injury crisis gave him a run in the side last season.
Why Roma Pushed for a Defensive Reinforcement
Roma, sitting near the top of Serie A, had been searching for defensive reinforcements to sustain a title challenge and identified Dragusin as a fit given his previous Serie A form. Tottenham’s rejection means Roma must accelerate alternative plans to bolster their backline this month.
Agent Confirms Player’s Preference for Italy
His agent, Florin Manea, says Dragusin has a strong affinity for Italian football and would welcome a return. “There are a couple of offers for him, but Italy is special for Radu and he did very well in Serie A. He is a gladiator and gladiators are at home in Roma,” the agent said.
Player’s Ambition and Club Options
Dragusin has been working to rebuild momentum after time out injured. Still only 23, he needs regular minutes to develop, so January could still see a permanent move or loan elsewhere if Spurs change course. The player has indicated he would be receptive to a return to Italy.
Spurs’ Defensive Picture and Transfer Ramifications
Tottenham’s defence remains competitive, with Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero first-choice but both previously linked with exits. The club also faces potential departures elsewhere: Mathys Tel is exploring options after limited starts this season. Spurs’ decision to retain Dragusin preserves squad depth but may impact the club’s ability to move other defenders.
Immediate Outlook
With Spurs keeping Dragusin, Roma’s window to strengthen is narrower and fast-moving. For Spurs, the move maintains cover during a critical month; for Dragusin, it delays an immediate return to regular Serie A football but keeps him in contention to impress under the current manager.
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Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly rejected a loan bid from Roma for centre-back Radu Dragusin, who recently returned from nearly a year out with an ACL injury and had been targeted for a return to Serie A. The 23-year-old has been included in Thomas Frank's last six matchday squads despite coming off the bench just once, and the club may decide to keep him around this January after knocking back Roma's approach.
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