English right-back Djed Spence has landed in Italy ahead of his long-anticipated transfer to Inter Milan from Tottenham Hotspur. The 26-year-old defender arrived in Milan late on Thursday night, just hours before his scheduled medical examination with the Serie A giants on Friday morning.
The transfer, valued at an initial €31.5 million (£27m), is expected to finalize at €35 million (£30m) once performance-related bonuses are included. Tottenham has also retained a 10% sell-on clause, ensuring future financial benefits from the deal. Spence’s move comes after a standout World Cup campaign with England, where his performances caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs.
Spence’s arrival in Milan signals end of Tottenham chapter
Spence’s departure from Tottenham marks the conclusion of a turbulent four-year spell in North London. Over 85 senior appearances for the club, including a Europa League triumph, Spence leaves amid limited first-team opportunities for the upcoming Premier League season. New manager Roberto De Zerbi has prioritized squad stability, with Pedro Porro entrenched at right-back and Andy Robertson providing cover on the left flank. Spence’s final campaign with Tottenham was particularly challenging, with the club narrowly avoiding relegation on the final day of the season.
Inter Milan’s strategic signing to bolster defensive options
Inter’s pursuit of Spence reflects their ambition to replace outgoing Denzel Dumfries, who joined Real Madrid in July. The versatile defender, capable of playing at both full-back positions, brings valuable Premier League experience and a strong World Cup pedigree. His brief but impactful loan spell at Genoa in 2024 provided him with firsthand knowledge of Serie A’s tactical demands, easing his potential integration into Antonio Conte’s squad.
World Cup performances drive European interest
Spence’s rise to prominence coincided with England’s impressive third-place finish at the 2026 World Cup. His consistent displays at right-back, combined with his physicality and attacking contributions, made him a prime target for Italian clubs seeking defensive reinforcements. The transfer underscores Inter’s strategy of blending Premier League experience with Serie A expertise, a formula that has yielded success in recent seasons.
What’s next for Spence at Inter Milan
With his medical clearance secured, Spence is poised to complete his move to Inter Milan pending final contract formalities. The club is expected to officially unveil him at San Siro in the coming days, where he will immediately begin preparations for the new Serie A campaign. His arrival adds depth to a squad already bolstered by the likes of Matteo Darmian and Alessandro Bastoni, offering Conte tactical flexibility as he navigates both domestic and European competitions.