Tottenham have reportedly opened preliminary talks with Middlesbrough for Djed Spence, with Arsenal among the competitors for his signature.
According to Football Insider, Tottenham have opened preliminary talks to sign Djed Spence from Middlesbrough. Spurs are looking to get ahead of the queue for a player they feel would strengthen their right wing-back position for next season, with the 21-year-old impressing at Nottingham Forest on loan this term.
Djed Spence has taken the opportunity afforded to him with both hands as Nottingham Forest got a great value on his loan deal. Middlesbrough were left to rue their decision to send the sensational right-back on a season-long deal, as he may have helped them push for a playoff spot.
He did help Nottingham Forest reach the playoffs, and the club will face Huddersfield Town in the final on May 29. Middlesbrough have since doubled their asking price from January, and they are now reportedly seeking at least £20 million from the Premier League clubs interested in signing Spence.
His performances have attracted widespread interest from the Premier League and top clubs across the continent, including Barcelona and Bayern Munich. But Spence may look to stay put in England, thus alerting clubs like Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham, and Arsenal.
In January, the Gunners registered their interest after Mikel Arteta’s side lost to Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup. Tottenham soon followed Arsenal as Antonio Conte identified the player as an upgrade to his current options at right wing-back.
Tottenham currently have Matt Doherty and Emerson Royal as the right wing-back options, with the duo unable to convince Conte about their long-term qualities. The former did perform well late in the campaign before he picked up a season-ending injured.
Spurs are now keen to bring in the exciting 21-year-old to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as they have reportedly opened preliminary talks to sign Spence from Middlesbrough. The Championship side will be in no hurry to agree on any deal, as they might wait on interest and proposals from other suitors, like Arsenal.
Middlesbrough will be hoping for a transfer tussle to see Spence’s price rise beyond their £20 million asking fees. The 21-year-old has a contract until 2024 and will command a hefty fee if Tottenham, Arsenal and others are serious about their interest.
