Djed Spence is edging closer to leaving Tottenham for Inter Milan, according to reports in Italy. The 26-year-old defender, who impressed for England at the World Cup, is reportedly 'on his way' to the San Siro, with Inter having muscled into pole position for his signature.
Spence's resurgence and transfer links
Spence struggled to live up to expectations after joining Tottenham from Middlesbrough in 2022, despite helping Nottingham Forest win promotion to the Premier League during an outstanding loan spell. After three separate loans with Rennes, Leeds and Genoa, he enjoyed a resurgence at Spurs last season, earning a place in England's World Cup squad.
He emerged from the tournament as one of the Three Lions' unlikely stars after working his way into Thomas Tuchel's starting XI amid an injury crisis at full-back. Tottenham's hierarchy, however, were unmoved and made it clear they were open to offers at the start of the summer transfer window.
Inter's interest and potential deal
Reports last week indicated both Manchester United and Liverpool had been offered the chance to sign Spence before the transfer deadline. However, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the relevant parties have come close to reaching an agreement 'in the last few hours' over a move expected to be worth in the region of €30million (£25.6m) plus bonuses.
The report adds that Spence will be brought in as Denzel Dumphries' long-term successor in Milan 'barring any unexpected developments'. He is set to follow in the footsteps of international colleague John Stones, who departed Manchester City to join the Serie A giants on a free transfer last month.
Impact and next steps
Given their grueling summer with England, neither player is expected to be ready for Inter's opening match of the Italian top-flight season at home to Monza on August 22. Tottenham had initially slapped a £35m price tag on Spence but ultimately decided to relax their demands to remove the defender from their wage bill.
Spence is likely to pen a four-year contract with Inter, and the impending move could pave the way for Luis Enrique to complete a switch to Roma. Inter have been forced to drop their pursuit of Tottenham defender Cristian Romero but remain interested in a deal for Liverpool and England midfielder Curtis Jones.
As one of Tottenham's many World Cup participants, Spence was not included in Roberto De Zerbi's touring party to New Zealand and Australia for pre-season matches. Spurs continue their busy pre-season schedule with a friendly against Hoffenheim at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this weekend before kicking off their Premier League campaign away to Brentford on August 22.
