Radu Dragusin’s Future at Tottenham: Loan Move to Roma Falls Through

Radu Dragusin excelled at Genoa in Serie A before his record-breaking transfer to Tottenham Hotspur, which made him the most expensive Romanian player in history at £21.5 million ($28.8 million) in January 2024. Although the defender primarily served as a backup under former manager Ange Postecoglou, he earned considerable playing time during a defensive injury crisis last season. Spurs took measures to ensure his fitness, preventing Romania from calling him up for national duty in October.

It remains uncertain whether Dragusin will receive more first-team opportunities under new manager Frank, particularly after a potential loan move to Roma was reportedly rejected, according to Mail Sport. Roma, currently positioned third in Serie A, had sought Dragusin to bolster their title challenge, trailing leaders Inter Milan by just three points, albeit having played two additional matches. With this loan option appearing off the table, Roma may need to explore alternatives.

Dragusin’s agent, Florin Manea, expressed his hopes for the move, stating to Rai Sport in Italy: “I’m waiting for Tottenham to say yes to Roma to get into the heart of it. 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.”

According to Fabrizio Romano, Dragusin has already signaled his approval for the transfer, emphasizing that Roma has made direct contact with Tottenham and established a positive rapport. The player is keen on returning to Italy, especially after a prolonged absence due to injury.

This month is pivotal for Dragusin as he aims to return to regular competition and rejuvenate his career at the age of 23. With ample potential for development, he is eager to secure consistent playing time. Whether Spurs will allow him to move, possibly through a permanent transfer rather than a loan, remains to be seen. Alternatively, Dragusin will strive to impress Frank and earn a place in a Tottenham defense that needs depth, particularly with Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, both first-choice defenders, previously linked with transfers.

In addition to Dragusin, another player, Mathys Tel, is also considering options for a departure this month as he aspires to be part of France’s World Cup squad next summer. The 20-year-old has only made seven starts under Frank this season, scoring three goals since his permanent transfer to Spurs for £29.8 million ($39.9 million) last summer, and has also been connected with a move to Roma.

Tottenham’s recent exit from the FA Cup, following a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa, has intensified scrutiny on head coach Frank, highlighting the urgent need for on-field improvements.