‘Very high’ chance Radu Drăgușin leaves Tottenham amid Serie A interest

Tottenham Hotspur could be prepared to part ways with Radu Drăgușin less than 18 months after signing him, with reports in Italy claiming there is a “very high” chance the defender returns to Serie A.

According to TuttoMercatoWeb, Drăgușin’s future in north London is increasingly uncertain following a long-term injury setback, with Italian clubs monitoring his situation ahead of the January and summer transfer windows.

Tottenham invested around €30 million to sign Drăgușin from Genoa in January 2024, viewing the Romania international as a long-term defensive asset. However, a serious injury sustained in January has kept the 23-year-old sidelined for more than 300 days.

While he was named in the matchday squad for Spurs’ defeat to Liverpool on Sunday, Drăgușin has yet to make a competitive appearance since returning from injury — a situation that has fuelled speculation over his role going forward under Tottenham Hotspur.

TMW report there is now a “very high” possibility that Drăgușin leaves Tottenham either in the winter market or next summer, describing a return to Serie A as “more concrete than ever” once the current season concludes.

Despite being under contract until 2030 and earning around £85,000 per week, Spurs are said to be open to discussions — provided they can recoup close to the €30m fee they originally paid.

A loan deal with an obligation to buy is described as the most realistic formula for a January move, although several Italian clubs would prefer a purchase option rather than a mandatory clause.

Among the interested parties, AS Roma are reported to be considering a move, particularly if Tottenham are open to a temporary exit. Roma’s interest could firm up depending on squad movement and budget flexibility.

Napoli are another long-term admirer. The Italian champions made a strong push for Drăgușin before he joined Spurs and continue to hold him in high regard, though it remains unclear whether they are ready to formalise that interest.

Meanwhile, Fiorentina could yet emerge as a contender. Reports suggest Tottenham sporting director Fabio Paratici has approved a move to La Viola as head of football — a development that could open the door to renewed talks involving Drăgușin.

From Tottenham’s perspective, the decision is a delicate one. Drăgușin remains a highly-rated defender with resale value, but his prolonged absence and competition for places raise questions about how central he will be to Spurs’ plans moving forward.

Recouping the €30m investment appears to be a firm stance, making deal structure crucial in any negotiations.

January will be pivotal. Tottenham must decide whether Drăgușin is part of their long-term plans or a sellable asset to reinvest elsewhere in the squad.

Italian clubs are expected to test Spurs’ resolve with loan proposals, while a permanent move may be more realistic next summer if the defender returns to full fitness. Much will depend on Tottenham’s defensive needs in the second half of the season — and whether Drăgușin can force his way back into contention.

Should Spurs cut their losses now — or keep faith in Drăgușin’s long-term potential?