Potential transfer blow for Leeds United and West Ham emerges amid key update on Middlesbrough star

Middlesbrough wing-back Djed Spence is now expected to join either Arsenal or Tottenham Hotspur during the summer transfer window, as per a report from the Daily Mirror (paper edition 3/4; page 71).

The 21-year-old has thrived at Championship rivals Nottingham Forest this term, arriving at the City Ground on loan last summer and establishing himself as an integral figure in Steve Cooper’s plans, proving to be a particular threat going forward on the right-hand side.

These consistent displays, combined with his performances against the likes of Arsenal and Leicester City in the FA Cup this year, has only gone on to increase interest in his services.

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur’s interest was reported by Sky Sports back in January with Leeds United, Brentford, Crystal Palace and West Ham also thought to be monitoring his situation in the second tier ahead of a potential move, with a cut-price deal possibly in the offing.

This is potentially due to Isaiah Jones’ emergence as one of the best wing-backs in the division for Boro, leaving them spoilt for choice with options on the right when Spence returns from the East Midlands.

That may have opened the door for the likes of the Whites or the Hammers to take advantage – but the Daily Mirror are now reporting that he is likely to head to north London – though they have also noted that he may cost around £20m (via The Boot Room).

The Verdict:

That’s actually a real shame – because he would have probably been a regular starter at a club like Leeds or Brentford lower down the table and instead – he looks set to take a risk with either the Gunners or Spurs.

Either side would definitely benefit from his arrival because he brings a considerable attacking threat and certainly has