A host of clubs are reportedly chasing a move for a Tottenham star who Antonio Conte clearly does not rate in the January transfer window.
Djed Spence has endured an incredibly frustrating time in north London since his summer switch from Middlesbrough, with previous reports suggesting that Conte was never on board with his signing in the first place.
Spurs coughed up an initial £13million when they finally landed one of their long-term targets, who was wanted during Jose Mourinho’s time at the club.
However, the 22-year-old right-back has not started a single game under Conte. Indeed, he has only made four substitute appearances in all for Tottenham.
And now ESPN states that a number of clubs are chasing a move for the player in January.
There have been conflicting reports over Spence’s future in recent weeks, with Spurs insider Alasdair Gold claiming there has been no indication of the club wanting to loan the defender out.
However, The Times claimed last Thursday that Spence is one of three players who is expected to be on the move in the new year.
And now ESPN has backed up that report from The Times by stating Spence could well leave.
They claim that a number of Premier League and also Championship clubs are keen on a temporary deal for the player.
There is no mention of which clubs are keen but the only way Tottenham are likely to allow Spence to move on is if a replacement is signed.
Sporting star could be Spence replacement
And that is where Conte’s interest in Sporting Lisbon star Pedro Porro comes in.
The north London club have been strongly tipped to sign the 23-year-old, who impressed against them in the Champions League this season.
Sporting are willing to listen to offers for the former Manchester City youngster. However, they are reportedly not willing to accept anything lower than a £30m fee.
Porro, who has nine assists in 20 games in all competitions for Sporting this season, would be an upgrade at right wing-back for Conte.
Emerson Royal has failed to take his opportunity to make the role his own, while Matt Doherty tends to struggle in games against the better Premier League teams.
And with Spence potentially on the move, it could be all change at right wing-back for Tottenham in the coming weeks. Indeed, Spurs could have a couple of new additions at the back soon, with one pundit suggesting another centre-back could also sign up.
Conte’s men are next in action on New Year’s Day when they host Aston Villa in the Premier League.