Bayern Munich are trying to hijack one of Tottenham Hotspur's main January transfer targets in a surprise move.
On Tuesday morning, it was reported that Spurs are close to agreeing a deal with Genoa for highly-rated defender Radu Dragusin for a fee of around £21.5 million plus add-ons.
Dragusin, who has started every Serie A game for Alberto Gilardino's side this season, has attracted interest from a number of top European clubs, including Bayern Munich.
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In fact, the Bundesliga outfit have recently sent a formal bid to Genoa, according to Fabrizio Romano, who says the proposal is "slightly higher" than Tottenham's.
Romano goes on to state that no players are included in Bayern's bid.
Djed Spence, who recently returned to North London after his loan spell at Championship side Leeds was cut short, has been linked with a loan move to Genoa as part of a deal for Dragusin.
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Spurs are currently on the lookout for centre-back additions, although Eric Dier is expected to leave the Premier League club in January.
According to widespread reports, Bayern Munich are set to complete the signing of Dier this month after reaching an agreement in principle.
The 29-year-old, who has played just four games for Tottenham this season, is expected to move to the Allianz Arena in a transfer worth around £4 million.
Whether the deal hinges on Dragusin's next move remains unknown, but it has concerned supporters.
The news comes just days after Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer voiced his approval of Dier's potential arrival.
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"The name definitely sounds good, that's for sure," he told Sky Sports Germany, when asked about Bayern's interest in Dier. "The people in charge will explore the market, we are completely relaxed about it."
Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel, meanwhile, gave a rather blunt response to a question about the 29-year-old.
When asked how Dier sounds, Tuchel replied: "English!" before adding: "Have you already asked the sporting director? There will be no comment from me."
Featured Image Credit: Getty ImagesTopics: Bayern Munich, Eric Dier, Tottenham Hotspur, Transfers