Drooid Logo
Back to story perspectives

Full Breakdown

Djed Spence Transfer Talks: Tottenham Hotspur vs Inter Milan

8/12/2026, 12:34:33 AM

Core Event

Tottenham Hotspur are in advanced negotiations with Inter Milan for the sale of England full-back Djed Spence. Inter have submitted an opening proposal that would see the player move for a fee reported in the range of €30 million (?£30 million). Spence, 26, has indicated he is open to the transfer, while Tottenham have signalled willingness to sell if a satisfactory offer is reached.

Background & Context

Spence joined Tottenham from Middlesbrough in 2022 for £20 million and signed a new four-year contract at the start of the 2025-26 season. He made 44 appearances for Spurs last season but recorded no goals or assists. The arrival of Andy Robertson and the preference for Pedro Porro at right-back have pushed Spence down the pecking order, prompting interest in a move where he could secure regular playing time and Champions League football. Inter Milan are seeking a replacement for Denzel Dumfries, who left for Real Madrid, making Spence their primary target for the right wing-back role.

Data & Statistics

Official Statements & Responses

Inter representatives said they are prepared to meet a fee “up to £30 million” and have reopened talks after earlier offers were deemed too low. Tottenham’s transfer policy this window has been described as “not finished yet”, with the club having already spent roughly £230 million on new signings.

Criticism & Opposition

Some commentators have called the £25-30 million range “mind-bogglingly low” for a defender at the peak of his career, arguing Spurs could command a higher price given Spence’s recent World Cup performances and the scarcity of quality full-backs.

Conflicting Reports & Gaps

  • Fee estimates differ across sources, ranging from €30 million to €45 million, and from £25.6 million to £30 million plus bonuses.
  • Club stance varies: early reports suggested Tottenham were prepared to let Spence leave for a modest sum, while later statements from De Zerbi stress his desire to keep the player if possible.
  • Player intent is consistently reported as openness to the move, but the exact timing of a medical or contract signing remains unconfirmed.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “In the transfer market, we have not finished yet [with] the players who will arrive,” — Roberto De Zerbi, Tottenham head coach
  • “It would always have been a surprise to see Romero move to Arsenal,” — Mick Brown, ex-Premier League chief

Timeline

  • July 18 – Spurs’ pre-season squad, including Spence, report back to Hotspur Way.
  • August 22 – Tottenham begin the Premier League campaign against Brentford.

What’s Next

The next steps involve finalising a fee acceptable to both clubs, completing Spence’s medical in Milan, and registering the move before the summer window closes. Until those conditions are met, the transfer remains pending.