Inter Milan have identified Tottenham and England defender Djed Spence as a potential replacement for Denzel Dumfries after the collapse of Anan Khalaili's transfer. The Italian giants need a full-back following Dumfries' departure to Real Madrid earlier this summer.
Khalaili Transfer Collapses on Medical Grounds
Anan Khalaili, an Israel international, was set to join Inter from Union Saint-Gilloise in a £25.6 million deal. However, he failed the Italian Olympic Committee's (CONI) stress tests after irregularities were flagged. Despite passing tests at the San Siro, CONI's strict regulations prevented the transfer from proceeding.
Inter President Beppe Marotta confirmed: "We had negotiated the purchase of Khalaili, but he failed the medical tests, the CONI just informed us and I wanted to let you all know. In Italy there are very strict rules on medical tests, so it is not a choice made by the club, we simply have to accept it, because this is about looking after the health of the player. When the CONI don't give the certificate, he is not allowed to participate in any official sporting event in Italy. It's sad, because we had carried on the negotiations with great effort, but now unfortunately we will have to think about an alternative."
Spence Emerges as Top Target
According to Sky in Italy, Spence is considered a prime alternative. The 25-year-old, who has previous Serie A experience on loan at Genoa, has become a crucial figure in Thomas Tuchel's England plans after injuries to Reece James and Tino Livramento. Spence is currently at the World Cup with England.
Spence signed a new contract with Tottenham last August, which could make him an expensive acquisition despite his difficult start in north London, which included loans to Rennes, Leeds, and Genoa. The fee required will be pivotal to Inter's willingness to pursue a deal.
Competition for Places at Tottenham
Spence's playing time at Tottenham could be limited next season. With the return to fitness of Destiny Udogie and the summer signing of Andy Robertson from Liverpool, the left flank is crowded. On the right, Roberto De Zerbi has Pedro Porro to utilise. This could make a move to Inter appealing if they choose to make an offer.
Inter had previously targeted Marco Palestra from Atalanta but were beaten to the deal by Chelsea. Marotta conceded that Italian clubs struggle to compete financially: "Dumfries preferred to conclude his career at a prestigious club like Real Madrid, so we had to find a substitute. Some of the fees going around are crazy, which make Italian football a mere spectator compared to the role we had in the past."
Spence's World Cup Campaign
Spence remains with the England squad at the World Cup, where his performances have drawn attention. His versatility and defensive capabilities make him an attractive option for Inter as they seek to fill the void left by Dumfries.
