Tottenham transfer news: AS Roma wanted Djed Spence, but they quickly discovered Tottenham had no intention of offering a discount. Italian transfer journalist Nicolo Schira reports that Roma made an attempt to sign the full-back before deciding Spurs’ asking price of around €40 million sat well outside their budget. Transfer Feed later relayed the claim.

Tottenham transfer news: Roma walk away after €40m valuation

Interest from the Italian club followed a season in which Spence changed plenty of opinions. He had entered the campaign as a useful squad player, yet he finished it as one of Tottenham’s most dependable defensive options after covering both full-back positions whenever required.

His league figures backed that rise. Across 30 Premier League appearances and 2,060 minutes during the 2025/26 campaign, the 25-year-old completed 84% of his passes, made 28 successful tackles and registered 58 clearances. He featured 43 times in all competitions, including 10 Champions League matches. Roma clearly liked the profile. They simply refused to stretch their finances to Tottenham’s valuation.

Tottenham transfer news: Spurs have earned the right to stand firm

Selling Spence for less would make little sense. Reliable full-backs who can switch flanks without weakening the side remain difficult to replace, and clubs usually pay a premium for that flexibility.

His value climbed again during England’s run to third place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Thomas Tuchel trusted him in key moments, and Spence answered with composed defensive displays against elite attackers. Those matches are more important than another routine league fixture.

That shift matters. A player coming off a strong international tournament almost always attracts greater attention, so Tottenham would gain nothing by lowering their demands after his stock reached its highest point.

Tottenham transfer news: Roma’s stance is understandable too

Roma’s hesitation isn’t surprising either. Spending €40 million on a full-back places serious pressure on any transfer budget, particularly when several areas of the squad still need attention.

Tottenham, though, hold the stronger hand. Peter Carrington doesn’t need to force a sale because Spence still offers genuine value inside Roberto De Zerbi’s squad. Inter Milan have already shown interest, while clubs across England continue tracking defenders capable of playing both sides of the back line.

That leaves Spurs in a comfortable position. They either receive the fee they believe reflects the defender’s standing or they keep a home-grown international whose performances during the past year have changed how clubs across Europe rate him.