Man United and Tottenham dealt blow with Genoa defender 'set to extend contract'

Genoa defender Radu Dragusin is reportedly poised to sign a new contract with the Italian club, despite attracting interest from Manchester United and Tottenham.

The Romanian international has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League in recent weeks.

Both Man United and Tottenham are keen to strengthen in central defence, with Dragusin touted as a potential January arrival.

Sporting director Marco Ottolini told the Genoa based newspaper Il Secolo XIX that the club were yet to receive an offer for Dragusin, as well as Morten Frendrup and Albert Gudmundsson.

Ottolini claimed with Dragusin will sign a one-year contract extension until 2028.

'Many phone calls but no offers,' Ottolini said.

'The company's will is not to sell anyone, then if an offer arrives it will have to be evaluated by the owners and the player's opinion will also count.

'But the will, I repeat, is not to give in to anyone.

'Dragusin, he will have an extra year on his contract, and then we are talking to Frendrup about an extension.'

According to the Telegraph, Dragusin's contract extension could affect his price at the 21-year-old defender continues to attract interest from the Premier League.

Dragusin came through at Juventus but has since gone on to thrive at Genoa.

Genoa had Dragusin on loan last season before they were able to snap him up on a permanent deal for just £5m, meaning they are in line for a sizeable profit.

Dragusin's agent, Florin Manea, has spoken openly previously about getting his client a move to England.

He said: 'I have been in London for some time and have almost weekly meetings with important teams. We are getting closer.

'I spoke with Newcastle, with Arsenal, with Tottenham.

'I also have messages with them, conversations. There