Nottingham Forrest fullback Djed Spence is close to securing a move to Tottenham Hotspur, according to recent reports. The 21-year-old has been in great form this season, helping Steve Cooper’s side gain promotion to the Premier League.
Spence, who is on loan from Middlesbrough played a huge role last season and even netted twice. He started 42 out of the 46 games, repaying the trust Cooper had in him. These performances have also attracted interest from bigger clubs in the PL and abroad. Spurs are said to be the club that is closest to securing his services.
Conte’s Fullback Dream
Antonio Conte is an admirer of Spence, he tried to sign him in January but both their proposals were pushed back by the club. His system is heavily reliant on fullback quality, as we have seen previously at Inter and Chelsea.
Nottingham Forrest will attempt to re-sign their former loanee but that looks very unlikely with Spurs offering him the chance to play in the Champions League.
Spurs are pushing to sign him for £15m according to The Express.
Will Unwin from The Guardian has also claimed that there is a verbal agreement between the clubs.
Playing Style and Analysis: Djed Spence
Spence is a young aggressive fullback by nature, with a special ability to progress the ball. He has also completed the most take-ons (76) in the squad, showing his attacking quality throughout the season. He lacks awareness at times, but working under Conte will be very beneficial for his career.
Spence’s dribbling ability and ball retention cancel out his suspect defensive positioning but that shouldn’t be much of an issue in a system where he would play as a wing-back. His 21/22 FA Cup campaign saw him stand out against some top-flight sides like Leicester and Arsenal.
The England U21 international looks like he is ready to take the next step in his career. Will Spence prosper under Conte in his first top-flight season? There is certainly enough talent there for Spurs fans to be optimistic.
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