Journalist Ryan Taylor has provided an update regarding Tottenham Hotspur's pursuit of Middlesbrough wing-back Djed Spence.
The lowdown: Breakout season
The 21-year-old enjoyed a superb season at Nottingham Forest on loan from his parent club and he played his part in Steve Cooper's team earning promotion to the Premier League.
The marauding London-born right-back scored twice and provided five assists in 45 Championship outings and was named in the division's Team of the Season.
That form has led to major interest from Spurs, and one reliable journalist has now shed some light on the current situation...
The latest: Taylor expects Spence to join Spurs
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Taylor has suggested that a move to north London for the England under-21 starlet could be nearing completion.
The Daily Express writer said: “There are indications that they’re ready to buy him, and Forest are exploring other options, so I expect that to get done.
“He’s a right wing-back that fits Conte’s system, he’s homegrown, he’s young with high potential. There’s a lot to like about him and I believe he’ll become a Spurs player.”
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The verdict: Fingers crossed
Proficient as a right-back and in more advanced positions along the same flank, Spence - who was branded 'tenacious' by reputable scout and analyst Liam Henshaw for his style of play - looks to be ideally suited to Antonio Conte's preferred 3-5-2 system which utilises attack-minded wing-backs.
In 2021/22, the youngster earned a 6.75 Sofascore rating whilst winning 5.8 duels and making 1.5 interceptions and one key pass per game, highlighting an impressive defensive acumen to accompany his forward-thinking prowess.
If - as reported by Sky Sports - the two clubs are currently wrangling over a £15m valuation, Spurs should be willing to pay whatever is required to bring the talented English full-back to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, as he seems a perfect fit for Conte and still has the bulk of his career ahead of him.