In a surprising turn of events, Tottenham has managed to secure the signing of Radu Drăgusin, beating off late competition from Bayern Munich. Sources have revealed to ESPN that Spurs have reached an agreement with Genoa for a deal worth approximately €25 million ($27.3m). This agreement includes an additional €5 million in add-ons. The deal also involves Genoa’s defender Djed Spence joining the Italian club on a six-month loan, with an option to make the transfer permanent for €10 million.
After Tottenham had taken the lead in the race to sign the 21-year-old Romanian defender, Napoli found themselves as the closest contenders. However, Bayern Munich suddenly entered the running on Tuesday amidst Spence’s delay in joining Genoa. Bayern offered to cover the entire cost of the transfer upfront, presenting a potential threat to Tottenham’s pursuit of Drăgusin. However, despite the German giants’ proposition, the young defender expressed a clear preference to join Spurs.
Djed Spence, who has had his fair share of obstacles, is set to embark on a new chapter in his career. Initially signed by Tottenham for a deal worth up to £19 million in July 2022, the 23-year-old has struggled to establish himself at the club. After a loan spell at Leeds was cut short, Spence found himself training with the under-21s as manager Ange Postecoglou did not include him in the first-team plans. However, now, with the loan move to Genoa, Spence aims to revitalize his career and prove his worth.
Radu Drăgusin’s transfer to Tottenham marks a significant milestone in his footballing journey. The talented defender joined Genoa from Juventus, initially on loan, in the summer of 2022. He played a crucial role in helping Genoa secure promotion from Serie B before becoming a regular in the Serie A this season. Drăgusin’s impressive performances and contributions to Genoa’s defensive line have caught the attention of several top clubs, including Tottenham and Bayern Munich.
Tottenham’s pursuit of Drăgusin is fueled by manager Ange Postecoglou’s desire to strengthen the central defense. With Cristian Romero sidelined due to a hamstring injury until February, the Australian coach has prioritized bolstering this area of the team. Postecoglou has had to rely on full-backs Emerson Royal and Ben Davies in central roles, with Eric Dier falling out of favor. Bayern Munich has also expressed interest in Dier as a possible alternative to Drăgusin.
The North London club is hopeful of completing the transfer in time for Drăgusin to be eligible to feature in the Premier League fixture against Manchester United at Old Trafford this Sunday. The swift completion of the deal would provide Tottenham with much-needed defensive reinforcement and add depth to their squad.