Tottenham Hotspur are closely monitoring Nottingham Forest loanee Djed Spence and Fabio Paratici has even been to the Midlands to see him in action, confirms football.london’s Alasdair Gold.
The Lowdown: Conte’s RWB dilemma
Since his arrival at Hotspur Way, Italian boss Antonio Conte has struggled to determine his go-to options in the wing-back positions.
As a result, the manager has flicked between Emerson Royal and Matt Doherty throughout the season.
After a string of extremely impressive performances, the Irishman recently came out on top, appearing to be Conte’s favourite option at right wing-back.
However, the 30-year-old has recently been ruled out for the rest of the season, once again sparking issues in the position.
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The Latest: Gold’s Spence claim
Throughout the January window, Spurs were linked with a number of right wing-backs; one of the most prominent being Djed Spence, who is currently on loan at Nottingham Forest.
In football.london’s most recent QnA, Tottenham reporter Alasdair Gold was questioned over the Lilywhites’ options at RWB and the rumours linking the north London club with a move for Spence. Gold revealed Paratici has been personally scouting the player:
“Spurs like Djed Spence. Fabio Paratici went to watch him recently, along with Brennan Johnson. Spence certainly ticks the homegrown box and is a talented young defender with plenty of attacking potential.
“I think Doherty has done enough to suggest that when he returns to fitness he will remain next season as an experienced wing-back and, while Emerson Royal now has the chance to make his case in the seven matches ahead, I do wonder whether he suits Conte's system enough. This summer could provide the opportunity for Spurs to get their money back as he's a decent right-back, just not a wing-back, and there will be interest in him.”
The Verdict: Great potential
Since arriving in Nottingham this season, Spence has gone on to have a fantastic season with the club. The 21-year-old has featured in 35 games in the Championship and played in every minute of Steve Cooper’s side’s run in the FA Cup.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright hailed the right-back’s praises for his performance against the Gunners in the FA Cup, claiming that it was one of the best right back displays he has ever seen. He even proceeded to compare the youngster’s “unbelievable level” to that of Reece James and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Therefore, having shown that he can perform against some of the top sides in the Premier League, Spence would be a great signing for Tottenham.
In other news: Tottenham Hotspur: Alasdair Gold drops verdict on the futures of Lo Celso and Ndombele