Inter Ready to Match Tottenham's £30m Valuation as Djed Spence Emerges as Serie A Giants' Top Defensive Target

Inter Milan are stepping up their pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur full-back Djed Spence, with the Serie A champions now prepared to match Spurs' £30 million valuation after making the England international their top defensive target this summer.

Spence's impressive performances during England's FIFA World Cup campaign have strengthened Inter's belief that he is the ideal player to fill the void left by Denzel Dumfries, who departed for Real Madrid earlier this transfer window. 

World Cup Displays Change Everything

Inter's admiration for Spence has grown significantly following his standout performances on the international stage.

Initially questioned after England's opening matches, the 25-year-old responded with a series of composed displays, becoming one of Thomas Tuchel's most reliable impact substitutes during the knockout rounds.

His pace, recovery defending and versatility have convinced Inter's recruitment team that he perfectly suits Cristian Chivu's tactical system. 

Inter Increase Their Budget

According to reports from Italy, Inter have decided to increase their transfer budget after realising Spurs are unwilling to negotiate below their asking price.

The Nerazzurri had initially hoped to complete a deal for considerably less, but are now prepared to move closer to Tottenham's £30-35 million valuation in order to avoid losing Spence to rival clubs.

Club president Beppe Marotta and sporting director Piero Ausilio are reportedly keen to accelerate negotiations once England's World Cup campaign officially comes to an end. 

Chivu Gives His Approval

Inter head coach Cristian Chivu is understood to have personally approved the move.

The Romanian manager values Spence's ability to play on either flank as both a full-back and wing-back, offering tactical flexibility that few defenders currently available on the market can match.

That versatility has elevated Spence above alternative targets including Nahuel Molina, Vanderson and Guéla Doué, all of whom remain on Inter's shortlist if negotiations with Tottenham fail. 

Tottenham Hold the Stronger Position

Despite growing interest, Tottenham are under no pressure to sell.

Spence remains under a long-term contract, and his value has only increased following an impressive domestic season and an excellent World Cup campaign.

With Roberto De Zerbi preparing for the new Premier League season, Spurs are expected to stand firm unless Inter meet their full valuation. 

What Happens Next?

Formal negotiations are expected to intensify after England complete their World Cup commitments.

Inter remain optimistic that Spence is open to making the move to Serie A, but the final outcome will depend on whether Tottenham are satisfied with the financial package presented by the Italian champions.

Why Inter Believe Djed Spence Is the Perfect Fit

Inter's pursuit of Djed Spence goes beyond replacing a departing full-back—it is about finding a player capable of thriving in Cristian Chivu's high-intensity tactical system.

Spence has developed into one of England's most athletic defenders, combining explosive pace with excellent recovery speed and an increasing confidence in possession. His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch makes him an ideal modern wing-back, a role that has traditionally been crucial to Inter's success.

For Chivu, Spence offers the balance of defensive discipline and attacking threat needed to maintain the Nerazzurri's aggressive style.

How He Would Fit Into Inter's System

Inter are expected to continue operating with wing-backs who provide width while also supporting the midfield during build-up play.

Spence's versatility would allow him to:

• Overlap consistently down the right flank.
• Recover quickly during defensive transitions.
• Deliver crosses into dangerous areas.
• Press high up the pitch without sacrificing defensive stability.
• Operate as either a traditional right-back or an attacking wing-back depending on the tactical setup.

His athletic profile makes him one of the closest stylistic replacements available for Denzel Dumfries.

Is £30 Million Good Business?

Considering the current transfer market, many analysts believe Tottenham's valuation is justified.

At 25 years old, Spence is entering the prime years of his career and has significantly increased his reputation through strong Premier League performances and an impressive FIFA World Cup campaign.

Compared with recent fees paid for top-level full-backs across Europe, £30 million represents a reasonable investment for a player with proven Premier League experience, international pedigree and room for further development.

For Inter, securing a player of Spence's quality at that price could prove to be one of the smartest defensive signings of the summer.

What It Means for Tottenham

Tottenham now face an important decision.

Keeping Spence would provide Roberto De Zerbi with another high-quality defensive option for a demanding season across multiple competitions.

However, accepting a £30 million offer would also generate significant funds that could be reinvested elsewhere in the squad.

Unless Inter meet Spurs' valuation in full, Tottenham are expected to remain in a strong negotiating position and have little incentive to sell.