Nottingham Forest have been dealt a blow in their quest to sign Djed Spence permanently this summer, with Tottenham now confident of acquiring his signature.

The Lowdown: Summer of woe for Forest

Steve Cooper's side secured promotion to the Premier League last month but their summer hasn't got off to the most positive of starts in the transfer market.

Rumoured target Connor Goldson has signed a new deal at Rangers, while goalkeeping hero Brice Samba has reportedly rejected a new contract at the City Ground.

Now, a third major blow looks like it could be coming Forest's way.

The Latest: Forest to lose Spence race

According to 90min, Spurs believe they will pip Forest to the signing of Spence this summer, with Antonio Conte looking to secure a deal for the right-back.

The north Londoners are willing to spend £20million on the Englishman, with personal terms on a long-term deal close to being agreed.

Spence enjoyed an outstanding season on loan from Middlesbrough, scoring two goals and registering four assists for Cooper's side.

The Verdict: Hard to compete with Spurs

This is an undoubted concern for Forest, with Spence such an influential presence at right-back last season, bringing so much attacking energy and quality to the team.

Sadly, the lure of joining Spurs could be too much for him to turn down, however, considering they have qualified for next season's Champions League.

There is still an element of hope that Spence ends up opting for Forest, where he would be a guaranteed regular, but they certainly can't be considered the favourites to get their man now.

In other news, Forest have been dealt a blow regarding one player's future. Find out who it is here.