Tottenham’s technical director, Johan Lange, has significantly influenced the club’s recent transfer activities, leaving a notable mark on both incoming players. The latest addition to Spurs’ attacking lineup, Timo Werner, arrived on loan from RB Leipzig, with the option to make the deal permanent for £15.5 million. Lange’s involvement in the transfer process included bringing Werner’s availability to the attention of head coach Ange Postecoglou, who expressed enthusiasm about the unique opportunity presented by Lange.
Despite the club’s initial focus on strengthening the center-back position, Lange’s strategic approach led to the consideration of attacking options. Postecoglou recognized Werner’s potential within Spurs’ system and identified opportunities for the German forward that might not have been as abundant in Leipzig, where the style of play was undergoing changes.
Lange’s Scouting Masterstroke in Securing Radu Dragusin
Johan Lange’s impact extended beyond attacking reinforcements to the strategic acquisition of Romanian defender Radu Dragusin. Despite Dragusin being familiar to former managing director Fabio Paratici, Lange played a pivotal role in the transfer process. Attending a match in Genoa on December 15, Lange and chief scout Rob Mackenzie closely observed Dragusin as he featured in a back three during a 1-1 draw against Juventus.
The scouting efforts persisted, with Lange reportedly spotted in the stands for Genoa’s subsequent 2-1 victory over Sassuolo a week later, further assessing Dragusin’s capabilities. The Romanian’s signing, valued at £21.5 million with an additional £4 million in add-ons, showcased Lange’s meticulous approach. Tottenham had been actively working on fortifying the center-back position since the summer transfer window, and Lange’s involvement added an extra layer to the club’s comprehensive strategy, building upon the groundwork laid by the scouting department.
Furthermore, Lange’s impact was not confined to the transfer negotiation table. His active involvement in scouting became evident during Tottenham’s victory at Nottingham Forest on December 15, where Lange and chief scout Rob Mackenzie were present to observe Radu Dragusin in action. The Romanian defender’s subsequent signing highlighted Lange’s meticulous approach to player assessment and his commitment to building a well-rounded squad.
