Tottenham maverick Djed Spence could be leaving North London after a rollercoaster three years.
Spence arrived from Middlesbrough full of promise, but was not given much of an opportunity before being shipped out on loan to Rennes, Leeds United, and Genoa.
Last season’s injury crisis finally allowed the talented full-back a chance to impress Ange Postecoglou, and he took it with both hands.
The Englishman was arguably Tottenham’s best player during the winter months, filling in on both flanks before eventually being phased out of the first team toward the end of Postecoglou’s tenure as Destiny Udogie returned to fitness.
The 24-year-old still has three years left on his deal, but recent developments suggest he may not see out his contract at Hotspur Way.
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Tottenham are considering signing another full-back
Thomas Frank is a big fan of Spence and previously explored the possibility of signing the former England Under-21 international while he was at Brentford.
Spence would have been hoping that the Dane’s arrival would boost his chances of solidifying a place in the starting line-up, especially with Pedro Porro potentially leaving Spurs.
However, as reported by The Athletic (1 July), Spurs have explored the possibility of adding another full-back to their ranks this summer.
The Lilywhites’ need to address their club-trained quota to satisfy UEFA Champions League rules has already seen them heavily linked with former academy players Kyle Walker-Peters and Dennis Cirkin.
This development could spell serious trouble for Spence’s future at Spurs, especially given that he has spent most of his time in North London feeling underappreciated.
With starting spots almost nailed on for Porro and Udogie, Spence could be the player to make way if a new full-back is signed.
Frank’s system suits Spence perfectly
Spence possesses unique qualities that set him apart from other Spurs options and could be a handy weapon for Frank.
His calm demeanour, both in and out of possession, makes him a very press-resistant player suited to the modern game.
The former Nottingham Forest loanee is also highly adept at dribbling and has exceptional athletic abilities that allow him to bomb forward and pose a significant threat in the front third.
Frank is expected to play a more direct brand of football geared toward quick transitions and overlapping fullbacks, for which Spence is almost custom-made. Therefore, Tottenham must ensure to keep hold of the right-back.