Tottenham Hotspur reporter Charlie Eccleshare has now made a very intriguing behind-the-scenes claim after defender Djed Spence's confirmed arrival from Middlesbrough.

The Lowdown: Spurs finally seal Spence deal...

Following what seemed like weeks upon weeks of talks, chairman Daniel Levy and Boro counterpart Steve Gibson reached a compromise over the signing of Spence.

Spurs confirmed his capture on Tuesday morning as manager Antonio Conte, at long last, gets an exciting and capable right-wing-back option through the door at Hotspur Way.

Spence's arrival not only adds that degree of quality, but it also goes some way to balancing the books when it comes to the Lilywhites' homegrown quota - which has been a real point talking point over this window.

Interestingly, as explained by The Athletic's Eccleshare, this transfer has been a real possibility since the winter window.

The Latest: Eccleshare makes intriguing Spence claim...

According to his sources, it is believed that the 21-year-old has had his eye on a move to north London 'as early as January' - even telling Nottingham Forest teammates that was his intention all along.

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Eccleshare explained:

"As early as January, Djed Spence told his Forest team-mates that he would be heading to #THFC. Yesterday he finally made the move."

The journalist also goes on to call the Englishman a 'very exciting' signing, even if it does carry a degree of risk.

"Anyway a very exciting signing but as ever with buying a player from the Championship a bit of risk.

Jack Clarke and Joe Rodon haven't been massive hits, but there are plenty that have been in the PL.

And I guess any signing carries degree of risk. Let's see."

The Verdict: Big boost...

Lauded as the 'perfect player' for Conte by members of the media, Spence's real desire to join Tottenham really sums up just how far they've come under the Italian boss.

Their pull is far stronger than this time last year under ex-boss Nuno Espirito Santo and the fact Spence has wanted to join since January of course means it isn't all about Champions League football either.

Conte may be building something special at Spurs and the 2022/2023 Premier League season will certainly be very interesting.