Tottenham Hotspur’s Romanian centre-back Radu Drăgușin has become one of the hot names of the January 2026 window.
He wants a Serie A return, with Roma leading the race. The Giallorossi are pushing for a loan with a buy option, while Spurs prefer a permanent deal and are looking for a €25–30m fee. Drăgușin earns around €3m net per year, and his salary could be adjusted if a move happens.
Beyond Roma, Fiorentina, Milan, Napoli, Inter and Juventus have shown interest. Fiorentina’s chances are slim given their league position and the player’s hesitation. Juventus have started moves to bring their former defender back, while Napoli and Inter have him on their shortlist as they scan the market for a centre-back.
Spurs have already rejected Roma’s first loan bid, signalling tough negotiations ahead. Tottenham value the player at around €25m, with some reports suggesting it could rise to €30m. How the deal takes shape will depend on both clubs finding the right financial balance.
Under Thomas Frank, the centre-back hierarchy looks something like this: First-choice pair: Cristian Romero (captain) and Micky van de Ven – the established, high-quality duo (when fit).
Third-choice: Kevin Danso (recent addition, ahead in the pecking order).
Fourth-choice: Drăgușin – he’s behind these three, and Ben Davies can cover as emergency CB.
Spurs have five natural centre-backs (including Davies for depth), but injuries have been a recurring issue in defence. Selling or loaning Drăgușin now risks dropping to four (or fewer if more injuries hit), which is risky in a long season.
Defensive injuries are common – Romero, Van de Ven, and others have missed chunks of games recently.
Depth is crucial with Spurs out of domestic cups (fewer games, but still an intense league/European schedule).
A loan risks him not returning stronger (or at all), and Spurs have already said no to that.
His market value might rise with more minutes/showing fitness.
Overall, Tottenham’s decision to reject the Roma loan makes sense for squad protection. If a strong permanent offer comes in (close to what they paid), it could be worth considering – especially if new signings arrive (e.g., rumours of Souza incoming). But rushing a sale/loan in January feels premature, given the injury risks.
