Inter Milan have opened formal talks with Djed Spence’s representatives as they look to secure the Tottenham defender ahead of rival interest from England. The Serie A club have made a direct approach to the player’s agents regarding a transfer this summer, with the 25-year-old understood to be receptive to joining the Nerazzurri.
However, Inter face significant obstacles in the form of competition from the Premier League and Spurs’ firm stance on price. Liverpool, Newcastle United and Everton are all monitoring the versatile full-back, who can operate on either flank. Tottenham value the former Middlesbrough player at approximately €35 million, though some reports suggest the asking price could reach €40 million.
Inter search for Dumfries successor
The Italian champions are actively seeking reinforcements on the right side of defence following Denzel Dumfries’ departure to Real Madrid. Their pursuit of Spence comes after frustrating failures to secure alternative targets earlier in the window.
Chelsea beat Inter to the signing of Marco Palestra, while a deal for Anan Khalaili collapsed. Reports differ on why the Israeli defender’s proposed transfer fell through, with some sources citing medical concerns and others pointing to eligibility issues raised by CONI, Italy’s Olympic committee. That double setback has forced Inter to accelerate their interest in Spence, who gained Serie A experience during a loan spell at Genoa in the second half of last season.
Spurs hold strong negotiating position
Although Tottenham are open to selling Spence, they are under no pressure to accept reduced offers. The England international remains contracted to the North London club until June 2029, with Spurs holding an option to extend the agreement by a further year.
Manager Roberto De Zerbi currently prefers Pedro Porro at right-back. The Spanish international signed a contract extension until 2031 in June, and Spurs previously rejected Inter’s enquiry for him. Spence is expected to serve as second choice should he remain in North London.
With the player willing to make the switch to Milan, the major remaining hurdle is financial. Inter must decide whether to meet Tottenham’s valuation or risk losing the defender to one of the interested Premier League clubs before the transfer deadline.