Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly closing in on announcing the capture of Middlesbrough full-back Djed Spence this summer.
According to Sky Sports journalist Lyall Thomas, Tottenham Hotspur have made yet another coup in the transfer market by acquiring the services of Djed Spence. They have reached an agreement with Middlesbrough to lure the talented full-back to north London, with the player set to undergo a medical in the city.
Tottenham have agreed to pay a base fee of £12.5 million upfront, though the overall cost of the operation could rise up to £20 million if add-ons are met. Spence is set to become Tottenham’s sixth major signing this summer and the latest addition to Antonio Conte’s plans to rebuild the defensive unit.
The Lilywhites have had issues in the full-back department, in particular. Last summer’s signing Emerson Royal does not have any future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after struggling to live up to his expectations. He is likely to be offloaded, amid interest from AS Roma.
Emerson’s departure leaves Matt Doherty as the only recognised option at right wing-back. But the former Wolverhampton Wanderers defender has not been consistent enough to become a reliable option in the position for Tottenham. It has, in turn, accentuated the need for a new right wing-back who can offer freshness and athleticism to the flanks.
That is where Djed Spence comes into the fray. The 21-year-old was one of the rising stars in the Championship last season, as he enjoyed an excellent loan spell at Nottingham Forest. He appeared in a total of 42 league matches, impressing the onlookers with his attacking prowess and ability to provide width out wide.
Spence’s performances were critical in helping Nottingham Forest seal promotion back to the Premier League. And while the Tricky Trees tried their best to retain the services of the youngster, it appears the player is currently on the verge of joining a superior club in the form of Tottenham Hotspur.
Although Spence does not have many prospects of being selected for England in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, he could be the missing link in the Tottenham backline. His pace and attacking prowess could galvanise Spurs’ approach play, while his athleticism means he can cover the entirety of the flank and recover defensive positions.
A fee of just £12.5 million, potentially reaching up to £20 million, is also quite reasonable for a player of his calibre and potential. Hence, it is fair to admit Tottenham have bagged a real bargain by securing a deal to sign Djed Spence this summer. Another brilliant piece of business from Antonio Conte and Fabio Paratici.