Djed Spence close to Tottenham exit as Inter talks continue

Djed Spence is moving closer to a Tottenham exit, with Inter in talks over a deal that could take the England defender to the Italian champions for around €30m (£25.6m).

Inter push for Spence deal

Negotiations are continuing as Inter look to strengthen at full-back following Denzel Dumfries’ move to Real Madrid this summer. Spence is understood to be open to the switch, and personal terms are not expected to be a major obstacle.

An agreement has not yet been finalised, but the expectation is that Inter will pay only slightly more than the £20m Tottenham spent to sign Spence from Middlesbrough in 2022.

Spence’s place in the Spurs picture

The 26-year-old’s route into the side appears to have become more difficult in north London. Spence signed a new four-year contract at the start of last season, but his standing has slipped after Tottenham brought in Andy Robertson from Liverpool.

With Destiny Udogie and Pedro Porro expected to be Roberto De Zerbi’s first-choice full-backs this season, Spence has been pushed further down the pecking order. That has helped open the door to a possible move abroad.

Spence’s profile remains strong, having started four matches for England at the World Cup, including the semi-final against Argentina. Inter’s interest reflects both his experience and the sense that he could still play a significant role at a high level if given regular opportunities.

Wider movement at Tottenham

Spurs have been active in the market and the club’s summer business has helped shape the context around Spence’s future. Tottenham have spent almost £240m on new signings, with Sandro Tonali arriving for a club-record £92.5m.

On Monday, the club also confirmed that Mickey van de Ven had signed a new five-year contract. The Netherlands defender said he wanted to be part of the direction Tottenham are taking, underlining the sense of a squad being reshaped ahead of the new season.

Inter and Spurs discussing other defenders

Spence is not the only Tottenham defender linked with a move during this window. Inter also held talks with Spurs over Cristian Romero, although the Argentina international now appears more likely to join Atlético Madrid for €40m.

That fee has yet to be agreed, but Romero is expected to head to La Liga despite interest from elsewhere, including Premier League champions Arsenal. For now, though, Spence looks the most immediate piece of business between Tottenham and Inter as discussions continue over a transfer that would suit all parties.