Inter Milan have identified Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence as the principal target to replace Denzel Dumfries, but securing the England international will require overcoming significant resistance from Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi. The Serie A club admire the full-back’s versatility and defensive capabilities, yet financial demands and coaching preferences present major obstacles to completing a deal.
De Zerbi reluctant as Spurs set €40m valuation
Tottenham have placed a price tag exceeding €40 million on Spence, a figure that reflects both the inflated nature of the English market and De Zerbi’s personal admiration for the player. The Spurs coach was particularly impressed by Spence’s performances at the recent World Cup, notably in the semi-final against Argentina where he effectively marked Giuliano Simeone using his pace and sharp defensive awareness.
Although Pedro Porro operates as Tottenham’s established right-back, providing depth that might theoretically allow Spence’s sale, De Zerbi is unwilling to lose a player he considers valuable squad cover unless an irresistible offer arrives.
Serie A experience fuels Spence interest
Despite the challenging negotiations, Spence is understood to be enthusiastic about returning to Italian football. The 24-year-old previously spent time on loan at Genoa, giving him existing familiarity with Serie A’s tactical demands. Inter believe this experience makes him an ideal fit for their system, and sources suggest the club remains in pole position to complete a deal, with fresh updates anticipated this week.
Free agents and familiar faces considered
Inter are simultaneously exploring alternatives should the Spence pursuit fail. One option involves a reunion with Ivan Perisic, who was released by PSV a year ahead of schedule and previously enjoyed a successful spell with the Nerazzurri.
Another candidate is John Stones. The former Manchester City defender, now a free agent after leaving the Etihad Stadium, was offered to Inter in recent weeks. Stones played every minute of England’s World Cup campaign without showing signs of physical decline, offering rugged centre-back experience even if his profile differs from the wide reinforcement Spence would provide.
The club’s recruitment difficulties are not limited to defence. Their efforts to sign Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones have been complicated by high valuations elsewhere in the market, forcing the hierarchy to reassess their midfield strategy.