Transfer Talk: Spurs eye Dragusin to bolster backline

Radu Dragusin may soon become Tottenham's first signing of the January transfer window. 

The Genoa centre-back, 21, has reportedly agreed personal terms while the clubs look towards an agreement on a fee.

It is no surprise that Spurs are keen to reinforce their depleted backline, with Cristian Romero the latest to hit the injury list following the crucial loss of Micky van de Ven last November.

As Ange Postecoglou's men welcome Burnley in the FA Cup third round, we look at Dragusin's emergence in Serie A.

Leaky Spurs defence

Tottenham have been among the poorer sides defensively in the Premier League this season.

Only Sheffield United, West Ham and Luton have allowed more expected goals against (35.62) than the North Londoners.

Guglielmo Vicario's brilliant shot-stopping has kept their goals conceded in the top flight down to 29 — but to compete on all fronts, the defence needs to improve. 

An injury to Van de Ven during Spurs' 4-1 defeat to Chelsea was a massive blow to the backline given the youngster's impressive performances since arriving in the summer.

Prior to the loss of the Dutchman, Tottenham let in just nine goals from 11 league matches. In the following nine games, they conceded 16 times. 

Interest in a new centre-back was therefore inevitable as Postecoglou looks to help his side push on in the second half of the campaign.

Defensive dominance

Dragusin has had a rapid rise to prominence in Italy. 

The Romanian centre-back came through Juventus' youth system before three successive loan moves to Sampdoria, Salernitana and Genoa. 

He helped Il Grifone gain promotion to the big time before making his move permanent last summer and has started all 18 of their 2023-24 Serie A matches so far this term.

Dragusin has been imposing in both boxes, winning more aerial duels than any other defender (58) in the Italian top flight and scoring two goals.

The Bucharest native has also been Genoa's primary passer on their Serie A return, leading the way in the squad for touches (890) and passes completed (545).

On the move

Genoa have made a solid start to the season. 

The newly-promoted side have conceded only 23 goals from their 18 matches and sit 12th in the Serie A table, six points above the relegation zone.

Dragusin's pivotal role has attracted the interest of potential suitors across Europe and Genoa boss Alberto Gilardino has already admitted the club will struggle to keep him should a sizeable fee land.

The 41-year-old said: "It also includes other players in the squad, not just him. 

"I hope no one goes away and that the club can make a sacrifice. At the same time, I would understand the club if it had to make a sacrifice in another way." 

As Postecoglou continues to build his Tottenham team, Dragusin's addition would add extra quality depth to a side with big ambitions under the Australian's guidance.