The agent of Genoa and Serie A defender Radu Dragusin insists that there is no truth to claims suggesting Premier League giants Newcastle United have submitted a £26 million bid for the Romania international.
A month ago, Florin Manea indicated that his highly-rated client was in ‘advanced talks’ with a number of Premier League clubs ahead of the January transfer window.
And it would come as little surprise if Newcastle United are among them, jostling for position at the front of the queue. The Magpies have shown an interest in the past, after all, and remain in the market for defensive reinforcements with Sven Botman injured and Fabian Schar approaching his 32nd birthday.
Newcastle United may be in for Radu Dragusin
Speaking again, this time to Calciomercato, Manea admits that he has had ‘meetings’ with Newcastle regarding a potential move to St James’ Park for Radu Dragusin. As of yet, however, Eddie Howe’s ambitious, upwardly-mobile side are yet to move beyond the interested stage, with the January window still on the backburner.
Manea’s denial comes amid suggestions that one English club are offering 30 million euros for a player let go by Juventus in his younger days.
“It is not an offer from Newcastle (although) I have had meetings with Newcastle and other teams. Genoa would only sell him for offer exceeding 30 million euros. Genoa will certainly ask a lot of money for him,” Manea explains.
“(Dragusin’s) dream is to reach the highest level. Personally, I have never had any doubts about Radu, given that I know all the sacrifices he makes every day to improve himself. He pays attention to every little detail, especially his diet.”
Watch out for Tottenham and Crystal Palace
Dragusin, capped 11 times by Romania at the age of just 21, has also caught the eye of Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace in previous windows. It is not out of the question that both clubs renew their interest in 2024 either, particularly with the likes of Eric Dier and Marc Guehi facing uncertain futures of their own.
Former Romania striker Florin Raducioiu, meanwhile, cannot see any reason why his compatriot cannot thrive on British soil.
“I would very well see him in the English championship. In the Premier League. I think he deserves a move there. I think it could be a dream come true for him,” Raducioiu tells OrangeSport.
“If everything goes well, he would deserve a bigger team. A team like Chelsea or Manchester United.”
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