Tottenham Hotspur have raised their price tag for Djed Spence following the full-back’s performances for England at the World Cup.
Spence has gone from a squad player fighting for his future at Tottenham to one of the standout stories of England’s World Cup campaign, transforming the conversation around his valuation.
The 25-year-old’s breakout moment came off the bench against Norway in the quarter-final, delivering a 34-minute cameo in which he made seven defensive contributions, won three of four ground duels plus an aerial duel, and completed 12 of his 14 passes while driving forward with energy.
Rio Ferdinand was among several pundits heaping praise on the Spurs man in the aftermath, saying people needed to “put some respect on his name,” with the former Manchester United and England defender demanding fans and pundits alike finally recognise the quality Spence has shown on the biggest stage in the game.
It’s high praise from one of the most respected defenders in English football history, and it’s been echoed elsewhere, with Alan Shearer insiting on commentary during the defeat to Argentina that Spence was a man of the match candidate.
Tasked with shackling Lionel Messi for large periods and producing a stunning tackle to deny a goalscoring opportunity for Giuliano Simeone, the 25 year-old left many Tottenham fans asking why on Earth he is seemingly up for sale.
Spence’s World Cup by numbers
313 minutes played
87 per cent pass success rate
2 tackles per game
0.4 dribbles per game
0.3 shots per game
Indeed, suitors have been circling for a cut-price deal since it became clear the former Middlesbrough man is not in Roberto De Zerbi’s plans, but Spurs’ valuation has now shifted considerably.
Tottenham name new Spence price tag
According to reports in Italy, Inter’s interest in the Englishman has not waned, but they are now facing a more difficult task to get a deal done.
This is despite Spence’s own willingness to join, as he wants to play Champions League football next season.
The versatile speedster is said to be keen on the move, but Spurs are now demanding upwards of €35m (£30m), which would bank them a considerable £10m profit on the fee they paid to bring him in from Boro in 2022.
Spence may now need to personally force through an exit – a strategy undertaken by an increasing amount of top players in recent transfer windows.
The two clubs will sit down for talks once the World Cup is complete, with the Three Lions set to partake in the third place playoff match on Saturday in Miami.
Spence exit clears the way for Souza
Football FanCast sources understand Tottenham have told Brazilian left-back Souza he will be part of De Zerbi’s plans next season.
The manager values his versatility and plans to use him as an alternative option to the experienced Andy Robertson, who arrived as a free agent from Liverpool this summer.
Destiny Udogie could be sold as he continues to struggle with injuries, but the Spurs manager wants two quality options in each position going into the new season.
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