Djed Spence: Liverpool's Target Amid Tottenham's Dilemma
Andoni Iraola has not wasted time putting his stamp on Liverpool. His first serious move, it seems, could come down the right flank.
According to reports, the Liverpool manager is actively trawling the market for defensive reinforcements, and one name keeps surfacing: Djed Spence. The 25-year-old, once a drifting figure on Tottenham’s books, has forced his way back into the spotlight after a late surge in the 2025-26 campaign.
From loan wanderer to hot property
Spence’s story over the last few years has been anything but straightforward. Shuffled out on loan to Rennes, Leeds United and Genoa, he looked like another talent slipping through the cracks at a big club. Then came the turnaround.
In the closing months of last season, Spence finally clicked at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. His form sharpened, his confidence returned, and his performances began to match the promise that once made him one of England’s most talked-about young full-backs. That resurgence, coupled with his impact on the international stage, has transformed him from fringe player to serious asset.
Tottenham responded decisively last August, tying him down to a contract running until June 2028. That deal now gives Spurs powerful leverage at the negotiating table, and they know it. Any club wanting Spence will have to pay.
De Zerbi’s pecking order opens the door
The twist lies in Roberto De Zerbi’s plans. Despite Spence’s resurgence, the Tottenham head coach is understood to favour Pedro Porro and Andy Robertson as his primary full-back options. For Spence, that pecking order leaves his long-term role in north London under a cloud.
Tottenham, for their part, are not about to sanction a bargain exit. With his value boosted over the summer, the club are said to be open to a sale only if a serious bid lands — in the region of £35 million. Below that, the conversation barely starts.
So the door is not wide open. But it is ajar, and Liverpool are hovering.
Liverpool’s need, Inter’s push
At Anfield, Iraola wants fresh energy and athleticism in his back line. Spence, now more rounded after his travels across France, England and Italy, fits the brief. Liverpool are watching closely, ready to act if the numbers and timing align before the window slams shut.
They are not alone. The most aggressive interest is coming from Italy, and from a club that knows exactly what it wants.
Inter have identified Spence as a priority signing to strengthen their full-back options. With Denzel Dumfries gone to Real Madrid, the Nerazzurri need a long-term replacement who can slot straight into Cristian Chivu’s system. Spence’s blend of pace, defensive recovery and improved decision-making has convinced them he could be that player.
Inter have already moved beyond simple admiration. Talks have taken place with the player’s representatives, and the hierarchy — including Beppe Marotta and Piero Ausilio — are prepared to stretch their budget to get ahead of Liverpool. Their fear is clear: wait too long, and Spence’s rising profile will only drive the price higher.
A player pulled in two directions
Spence’s own situation adds another layer. After helping England secure third place at the World Cup, he was granted an extended break and missed Tottenham’s pre-season tour of New Zealand and Australia, including fixtures against Auckland FC and Sydney FC. While his team-mates tuned up on the other side of the world, he stayed away, his future quietly becoming one of the window’s more intriguing subplots.
He knows Italy. He thrived there with Genoa, rediscovering rhythm and resilience in Serie A. A return to that environment appeals. Yet the pull of Liverpool — the stadium, the stage, the chance to work under Iraola in the Premier League — carries its own weight.
Two clubs, two leagues, two very different projects. One player at a career crossroads.
Tottenham hold the contract and the price tag. Liverpool and Inter hold the ambition. Spence holds the final decision — and with the deadline looming, that choice could reshape more than just his own career.
