The January transfer window is in full swing, sparking a flurry of negotiations and speculation across European football. Daily Mail Sport's Simon Jones reports on a series of key developments, with Tottenham Hotspur making a firm decision on a defender and Aston Villa revisiting a familiar face to bolster their attack.
Defensive Decisions in North London and Turin
Tottenham Hotspur have turned down an approach from Italian club AS Roma regarding a potential loan move for centre-back Radu Dragusin. The Romanian international, who was an unused substitute in Spurs' recent match against Aston Villa, has found first-team opportunities limited. His agent, Florin Manea, had publicly expressed hope for a move to the Italian capital, stating, "I'm waiting for Tottenham to say yes to Roma." He emphasised Dragusin's affinity for Serie A, calling him a "gladiator" for whom Rome would be home. However, Spurs have opted to retain the defender for now.
Meanwhile, Juventus are pressing ahead with talks over a January move for Bournemouth's Argentine defender Marco Senesi. The 28-year-old, whose contract expires this summer, is also on the radar of Barcelona. Juventus are keen to secure a deal now to avoid a summer bidding war for the highly-rated centre-back.
Forward Thinking: Loan Moves and Striker Searches
Another Tottenham player seeking more minutes is forward Mathys Tel. The 20-year-old Frenchman, whose £30m permanent move from Bayern Munich was finalised last summer, is eager for a loan spell. Having started only six matches for Spurs under manager Thomas Frank despite scoring three goals, Tel believes regular playing time is crucial to force his way into the French national squad ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
In the Midlands, Aston Villa have renewed their interest in striker Tammy Abraham. The 28-year-old, who enjoyed a prolific loan spell at Villa Park during his Chelsea days, is currently on loan at Turkish side Besiktas from Roma. A permanent transfer is complicated, however, as Besiktas hold an £11.2m option to buy, meaning Villa would need to negotiate with both clubs. Villa are also monitoring the situation of Newcastle United's Will Osula.
Midfield Moves and Contract Talks
Elsewhere, the midfield market is active. Napoli have identified Wolverhampton Wanderers' Joao Gomes as an alternative target after growing pessimistic about signing Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo this month. At Goodison Park, Everton are in ongoing discussions to secure midfielder James Garner on a new contract, despite noted interest from AC Milan and Nottingham Forest.
A poignant story involves Roma midfielder Edoardo Bove. The 23-year-old has not played since collapsing on the pitch 13 months ago. Fitted with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD), he is prohibited from playing in Italy under Serie A regulations. Roma are therefore cancelling his contract to allow him to become a free agent, with Watford in talks over a potential six-month deal.
As the window progresses, these narratives will develop, with clubs across the UK and Europe racing to strengthen their squads for the second half of the season.
