Dragusin Pushes for Permanent Tottenham Exit as Roma Talks Intensify
Radu Dragusin has made his stance unmistakably clear, with the Tottenham defender pushing hard for a permanent move away from north London as Roma step up their interest. The Romanian international wants a clean break this month and has set his sights firmly on a return to Serie A.
The 23-year-old’s situation has escalated quickly, with reports from Italy indicating that Dragusin has no desire to remain at Spurs or consider a temporary solution. Despite interest from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, the centre-back is prioritising Roma and is determined to avoid any scenario that could see him return to Tottenham.
Dragusin arrived in London just two years ago after a standout spell at Genoa, a move that saw him turn down Bayern Munich in favour of Premier League football. However, his time in England has stalled, and his relationship with the club appears to have reached a breaking point as he searches for regular football and long-term stability.
The context behind his frustration is stark. Dragusin has played just five minutes of competitive football this season, making a single appearance under head coach Thomas Frank. After recovering from a serious cruciate ligament injury, the defender is eager to rebuild momentum and feels his development has been put on hold.
Inside the club, the atmosphere around his future is increasingly tense. Roma’s interest has brought renewed focus to Dragusin’s status, but Tottenham remain cautious. Spurs invested heavily in the defender in 2024 and are reluctant to sanction a move that does not guarantee a permanent exit.
Negotiations have so far been shaped by contrasting priorities. Roma have proposed a loan deal with an option to buy, while Tottenham are holding out for an obligation that secures a future transfer fee. The London club are wary of the risks attached to a simple loan, particularly given Dragusin’s recent injury history.
Key figures around the player are also influencing the direction of talks. His agent, Florin Manea, has been vocal in pushing the narrative of a move to Rome, portraying his client as a natural fit for the Stadio Olimpico. That stance has coincided with Dragusin placing RB Leipzig on standby, despite the German club’s reputation for developing young defenders and offering Champions League exposure.
Roma’s financial limitations have made progress difficult. Committing to an obligation to buy would satisfy both the player and Tottenham, but such a structure stretches the Italian club’s budget. As discussions drag on, impatience is growing within Dragusin’s camp.
For Tottenham, the late stages of the window could prove decisive. Dragusin remains under contract until 2030, giving Spurs leverage, but an unhappy player is far from ideal. The club want clarity and protection, while the defender wants closure and a defined future.
As the window moves toward its final weeks, the outcome hinges on Roma’s ability to bridge the gap between an option and an obligation. Until then, Dragusin’s desire for a permanent escape from Tottenham remains unresolved, with all parties aware that time is rapidly running out.