Djed Spence's World Cup exploits seemingly haven't caused a U-turn and Tottenham Hotspur are still ready to sell the full-back.
That's according to Daily Mirror reporter Darren Lewis, who has suggested it would be a huge shock if he's still with the Lilywhites when the new season kicks off. His future has been the subject of speculation throughout the summer and his performances for England have put many clubs on alert.
Spence was a standout performer for the Three Lions, starring as the tournament progressed and winning over fans who questioned Thomas Tuchel's decision to call him up. He put a difficult past season at Spurs behind him with inspired displays, including in the 2-1 loss to Argentina in the semi-finals.
Tottenham transfer targets:
Cody Gakpo - Big proposal required for Liverpool attacker
Savinho - Growing confidence over signing Man City star
Junior Kroupi - Pursuit halted due to Bournemouth star's injury
Pedro Neto - Interested but viewed as Savinho alternative
Tottenham Still Expected To Sell Spence
Tottenham signed Andy Robertson as a free agent before the World Cup and this cast significant doubt over Spence's future. De Zerbi seems keen to have the veteran Liverpool star compete with Destiny Udogie for a starting berth at left-back.
Lewis gave his thoughts on Spence's situation and made clear he believes a departure is on the cards. He told Hotspur Lane:
"I will be STAGGERED if the window closes, and Spence is still a (Tottenham) player."
Spence has been at Spurs since July 2022 when he arrived from Middlesbrough in a deal worth up to around £20 million. He has struggled to earn a permanent place in the starting lineup but had shown glimpses of promise last season.
The 25-year-old proved his worth during the World Cup and The Athletic's Jay Harris was one of many to sing his praises: "Djed Spence has shown he was the perfect back-up full-back for the World Cup. Overlapping runs, versatility, tenacity in 1v1 duels and so much more. Spence’s journey over the last two years has been remarkable."
Likewise football.london's Alasdair Gold wrote:
"Sometimes World Cups define a player for good or bad. This summer has been Djed Spence's moment to ensure humble pie has been served up and eaten across the globe by many a pundit and fan."
Stats courtesy of SofaScore - correct as of 07/08/2026
With two years remaining on his contract, the North Londoners appear eager to cash in off the back of his World Cup campaign. He has many options, including staying in the Premier League or moving to Italy, with Inter Milan thought to have held talks.
Ranking 4 Premier League Clubs Who Should Sign Spence
While a move to Serie A could appeal, staying in the English top-flight feels the best solution for a player who will want to cement his place in the England team ahead of Euro 2028. There have been four Premier League clubs linked with the Spurs star and one of them feels the right move for the player and the club.
It's mayhem at St James' Park at the moment and new manager Matthias Jaissle could have a completely new-look team next season. Moving to Tyneside right now doesn't feel like the best idea given how much uncertainty there is with high-profile names constantly heading for the exit.
Newcastle have been tracking Spence though and he could be the versatile full-back to replace Kieran Trippier. A switch that comes with risk due to a transitional period.
David Moyes' Toffees have reportedly been showing interest in Spence since early July and he'd be an excellent addition to their squad. The Merseyside outfit are crying out for a new full-back and he'd likely be given a guaranteed starting role.
That said, Spence might be looking further up the table and dreaming of playing in Europe. If Moyes is unable to achieve this, it might not be too long until his name is back on the rumour mill and he's being talked up for another move.
The right-back position remains an issue for the Reds amid Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley's fitness struggles. If Spence were to join Andoni Iraola's side he'd also offer competition to Milos Kerkez at left-back.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Liverpool aren't currently focusing on a deal for the Spurs defender. So with their attention clearly elsewhere, a move to Anfield seems unlikely but does make sense for Iraola and the player.
INEOS need to immediately pivot to Spence after being told Newcastle are not prepared to sell Lewis Hall. Michael Carrick needs more options at full-back with a lack of options to rotate with Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw heading into a return to the Champions League.