Inter Milan appear poised to seal a permanent transfer for England international Djed Spence, with reports suggesting a fee around €30 million plus performance‑related bonuses. The negotiations, which have been simmering for months, have reportedly accelerated after Tottenham Hotspur lowered their asking price, bringing the two clubs closer to a deal that could reshape Inter’s defensive setup for the 2024‑25 season.
Background: Inter's Right‑Back Woes
Since the summer activation of Denzel Dumfries’ €70 million release clause by Real Madrid, Inter have been scrambling for a like‑for‑like replacement. Initial pursuits of Atalanta’s Marco Palestra and Al‑Ittihad’s Anan Khalaili fell through on medical or contractual grounds, while interest in Moussa Diaby never materialised into a concrete offer. The club’s urgency grew as the Serie A campaign loomed, prompting a renewed focus on the English right‑back who impressed during his loan spell at Sunderland.
Spence Profile and Tottenham Situation
Djed Spence, 26, made his name at Fulham before joining Tottenham in 2023. In the Premier League he logged 2 800 minutes, delivering 5 assists, 2 goals, and a 78 % tackle success rate – impressive numbers for a player still adapting to top‑flight demands. However, a change in manager and a crowded full‑back roster limited his starts, leaving him eager for a move where he can secure a regular spot.
Financial Terms and Negotiation Dynamics
Italian outlets, chiefly La Gazzetta dello Sport, cite a base fee of €30 million, with add‑ons potentially pushing the total to €35 million depending on appearances, European competition involvement, and Inter’s league finish. Tottenham, initially demanding €40‑50 million, appear willing to accept a lower figure to offload a player whose market value has plateaued. Inter’s financial director, Marco Fabbri, is said to be awaiting final approval from head coach Roberto De Zerbi before signing the agreement.
Potential Squad Impact for Inter
Spence’s arrival would give Inter a right‑back capable of contributing both defensively and offensively. His average of 2.3 key passes per 90 minutes at Tottenham suggests he can bolster Inter’s attacking flank, complementing the likes of Federico Chiesa and Lautaro Martínez. Defensively, his 0.9 tackles and 0.5 interceptions per 90 minutes align with the standards set by former Inter stalwart Milan Škriniar, offering a balanced profile for a club that favours fluid wing‑back play under De Zerbi’s 3‑5‑2 system.
What Inter Might Need to Sacrifice
To fund the Spence purchase, Inter could look to offload right‑winger Luis Henrique to Roma for an estimated €25 million, as reported by Italian media. The cash generated would comfortably cover the Spence fee while allowing Inter to retain a healthy wage structure. Moreover, abandoning the pursuit of centre‑back Cristian Romero, now linked with Atlético Madrid, signals a strategic shift toward strengthening the flanks rather than the heart of defence.
Long‑Term Outlook
If the deal materialises, Inter will have addressed a critical positional gap, potentially improving their defensive solidity and providing an additional outlet in transition. For Tottenham, the sale frees up squad space and recovers a portion of the investment made two seasons ago, enabling them to reinvest in emerging talents from their academy.
Inter’s pursuit of Spence is a pragmatic move that finally addresses a glaring vacancy without breaking the bank. If the fee stays near €30 million, the Nerazzurri will gain a versatile asset while Tottenham finally cashes in on a player who never fully fit their system.
Tactically, Spence adds pace and crossing ability to Inter’s right side, fitting seamlessly into De Zerbi’s high‑pressing 3‑5‑2. Strategically, the transfer signals Inter’s intent to prioritise wing‑back depth over a costly centre‑back overhaul, potentially reshaping their transfer agenda for the summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
The fee is estimated at around €30 million, with possible add‑ons that could raise the total to about €35 million.
Spence offers pace, crossing ability, and defensive reliability, making him a natural fit for Inter's right‑wing‑back role in their 3‑5‑2 formation.
Yes, reports suggest Inter may sell right‑winger Luis Henrique to Roma for roughly €25 million to help finance the Spence deal.