Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly considering a move for Napoli centre-back Alessandro Buongiorno during this transfer window, as they seek to bolster their defensive options. The potential acquisition comes amid speculation that current Spurs defender Radu Dragusin could depart for AS Roma, creating a vacancy in Thomas Frank's squad.
Spurs' Defensive Dilemma
This season has proven challenging for Tottenham in domestic competitions, with the team languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table for the second consecutive year. While they have performed admirably in the Champions League, their league form has fallen significantly short of expectations, placing manager Thomas Frank under considerable pressure.
The January transfer window represents a crucial opportunity for Spurs to strengthen their squad and revive their hopes of European qualification. However, the club has faced difficulties in securing new signings, with only Conor Gallagher arriving so far this month following Brennan Johnson's early departure.
Injury Concerns and Defensive Needs
Tottenham's defensive resources have been further depleted by Ben Davies' serious ankle injury, which will sideline the Welsh defender for at least three months following surgery. This situation has heightened the need for reinforcements at the back, with Liverpool's Andy Robertson identified as a primary target for the left-back position.
The potential departure of Radu Dragusin adds another layer of complexity to Tottenham's defensive planning. The Romanian international has struggled to establish himself in the team since returning from a long-term injury, with his performances last season occasionally described as sloppy, though this must be viewed in the context of playing within an injury-ravaged and inexperienced defensive unit.
Buongiorno's Napoli Situation
Alessandro Buongiorno, the 26-year-old Italian defender who joined Napoli in 2024 for approximately £30 million, has found himself out of favour under former Tottenham manager Antonio Conte. According to reports from Calciomercato, the centre-back appears to have lost his focus and motivation due to limited playing opportunities this season.
Despite making 18 Serie A appearances, Buongiorno has started only 13 matches, suggesting he may be available for transfer. Napoli would likely demand at least their original investment to part with the defender, whose value may have increased with additional top-level experience.
Conte's Influence on Potential Deal
The potential transfer is complicated by Antonio Conte's current position as Napoli manager, with reports suggesting the Italian tactician holds all the cards regarding Buongiorno's future. Tottenham would need to negotiate with their former boss to secure the defender's services, adding an intriguing subplot to any potential deal.
Should Dragusin complete a move to Roma, Buongiorno could provide valuable defensive cover and competition for places in Tottenham's back line. His Serie A experience and technical qualities might offer an upgrade on Tottenham's current defensive options as Frank seeks to address his team's defensive vulnerabilities.
The coming weeks will prove decisive for Tottenham's transfer strategy, with defensive reinforcements becoming increasingly urgent as they attempt to salvage their Premier League campaign and maintain their European ambitions.
