Tottenham Hotspur have set their sights on defensive duo Radu Dragusin and Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the January transfer window, according to Football Transfers.
Spurs have been reduced to the bare bones when it comes to central defenders this season. Micky van de Ven and Eric Dier have suffered injuries. A three-match suspension to Cristian Romero at the same time meant that Ange Postecoglou had to field the likes of Emerson Royal at centre-back as a temporary stopgap.
It is understandable that Spurs want to reinforce in this area in the January transfer window. Ever since van de Ven’s injury, there have been rumours linking Spurs with a move for Dragusin (Mirko Di Natale).
Digi Sport subsequently revealed that Newcastle United were also in the race for his signature and that the Magpies had already made an offer. Genoa’s sporting director Marco Ottolini speaking to DAZN (as relayed by HITC) denied these claims and clarified that the club had not received any offer for the talented centre-back.
The other name gaining prominence in Spurs circles is Jarrad Branthwaite, The Daily Mail relayed a few weeks ago that the Everton defender was on Tottenham’s wishlist. However, Sky Sports revealed that it is highly unlikely for him to leave the Toffees in January.
Deal for either player might be complicated
Football Transfers have added in their report that Tottenham’s scouting team have been very impressed with Dragusin’s performances for Genoa and that they have genuine interest in him.
With respect to Branthwaite though, Everton are said to value him at around £75million. Having recently tied him down to a new contract until 2027, the Merseyside club are in no rush to sell him.
Spurs Musings Opinion
Spurs might be priced out with regards to a move for Branthwaite. The fee that the Toffees are demanding is outlandish and I don’t see us paying that much to secure his services.
With respect to Dragusin though, he might be a more realistic transfer target. A good offer might tempt Genoa to sell him in January. Spurs might not want to wait until the summer, and this would be an interesting situation to keep an eye out on.