Why Tottenham’s £30m Djed Spence Sale Could Make Sense
Djed Spence’s impressive World Cup displays earned plenty of praise from Tottenham supporters. The 26-year-old demonstrated his ability to drive forward with the ball, exploit space on the counter and use his pace effectively in defensive situations. That made Spurs’ decision to sanction his £30 million transfer somewhat surprising to some fans.
The Question Over His Attacking Output
Spence has outstanding physical qualities, but his attacking numbers have not always matched his reputation as an explosive full-back. He averaged just 0.4 chances created per 90 minutes and completed only 19.6% of his crosses, both below the Premier League average for full-backs. He also finished the 2025/26 campaign without registering a goal or assist.
Despite regularly finding himself in promising positions, his final delivery and decision-making have sometimes been inconsistent. His tendency to lose possession could also have created problems in Roberto De Zerbi’s system. Spence was dispossessed 29 times last season, more than 84% of Premier League full-backs.
For a manager who demands composure when playing under pressure and building from difficult situations, that weakness could become costly. With Pedro Porro already established as the preferred right-back, selling Spence creates an opportunity for Tottenham to bring in a more reliable alternative.
Why Inter Could Suit Spence
A move to Serie A could allow Spence’s strengths to shine in a more specialised role. Inter could provide the tactical structure necessary to maximise his pace, power and athleticism, particularly if he operates as the right-sided defender in a back three.
The Italian club has experience with players capable of performing multiple defensive roles. Carlos Augusto, for example, has operated as both a full-back and centre-back, demonstrating the versatility often required within Inter’s system.
Was £30m the Right Price?
While some may argue that £30 million represents a bargain for Spence, Tottenham were not in an ideal negotiating position. With limited competition for his signature, Spurs may have struggled to demand a significantly higher fee.
Selling him while his market value remained strong therefore made financial sense. Tottenham are also positioned to make a substantial profit on the £12.5 million they paid for him in 2022.
De Zerbi had already made his position clear earlier in the summer: players who are unhappy or unwilling to give their full commitment should be allowed to leave. Following his impressive performances for England, Spence may have been understandably unwilling to remain behind Porro, Destiny Udogie and Andrew Robertson in the pecking order, especially with European football not available.
Another Sign of Tottenham’s New Era
Spence’s exit could be another indication of the changing mentality at Tottenham under De Zerbi.
Spurs have previously been criticised for holding onto players who wanted to leave. De Zerbi, however, appears to demand complete commitment from his squad, and the club now seems more prepared to make difficult decisions in order to support his philosophy.
Unlike previous managers who largely inherited their squads, De Zerbi appears to have greater influence over recruitment and departures. That gives him the freedom to build a team specifically suited to his tactical approach.
Spence remains a talented player with plenty of potential, but Tottenham’s ambitions have changed. With limited squad space and significant investment in established players—including £185 million spent on midfielders this summer—some difficult departures were always going to be necessary.
For Spurs supporters, losing Spence after two solid seasons may still be frustrating. However, the decision appears to reflect a broader objective: Tottenham are no longer simply trying to assemble a bigger squad, but a stronger and more balanced one.
Ultimately, the £30 million sale of Spence could prove to be less of a gamble and more of a calculated step towards De Zerbi’s long-term vision for Tottenham. Oh
