MIDDLESBROUGH, ENGLAND - JANUARY 05: Djed Spence of Middlesbrough celebrates his team's first goal during the FA Cup Third Round match between Middlesbrough and Tottenham Hotspur at Riverside Stadium on January 05, 2020 in Middlesbrough, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
According to ESPN, Tottenham are interested in signing Middlesbrough youngster Djed Spence in the summer.
Having risen through the youth ranks at Fulham, Spence, 19, joined Boro’s U23 side in the summer of 2018. Despite his tender age, he made his Middlesbrough debut in the EFL Cup in August 2018 and has impressed with the club’s youth teams. He has been impressive so far and is one of the best players in his age group in the country.
The teenager’s impressive performances have also garnered the attention of several clubs in England. Clubs like West Ham and Brighton are also interested in securing the services of the right-back, as per the report. Thus, Tottenham should make a move for the youngster at the earliest.
Jose Mourinho must address the full-back problem at the club. At the moment, only two full-backs are available at the manager’s disposal. Ben Davies has done a decent job on the left side of the defence since his return from a long injury layoff.
On the right side of the defence, Serge Aurier is the only option available after Mourinho agreed to let Kyle Walker-Peters leave on loan to Southampton. The Ivorian has not been at his best and has also been vulnerable in defensive situations, though he has been decent while moving forward. And without a backup, it would be difficult for Tottenham in the following campaigns.
In that regard, signing Spence would help them secure their right-back slot for the future. The teenager has already made 20 appearances in the Championship this season, providing 1 assist. His numbers may not be great but the youngster is highly talented and can develop himself under the guidance of Mourinho if he joins Spurs.
He has shown immense potential at a young age and could be a good addition for Tottenham if he is able to replicate the good form he has shown this season.
With limited options, it is clear that Tottenham are in need of full-backs. And investing in the youth could help them reap rewards in the future. Thus, luring the 19-year-old Spence to North London would be a wise decision by the club.
