Djed Spence has "expressed a preference" to join Tottenham Hotspur over Nottingham Forest and other interested clubs this summer, it has been claimed.
The 21-year-old Middlesbrough player is said to favour Tottenham over "other suitors", of whom Forest are one. Both clubs are interested in signing the 21-year-old on a permanent basis after his impressive loan season for the Reds in the Championship last term.
According to The Athletic, Boro and Tottenham are in discussions over a fee, but Champions League football under Antonio Conte is seemingly proving more attractive to the England under-21 international.
Forest promotion special - 48-page souvenir now available to buy here
Read more: Forest goalie makes honest admission amid 'uncertainty' over Reds future
Read more: Nottingham Forest have 'greater chance' of completing Aston Villa transfer
His stock rose dramatically after he shone last season under the guidance of Steve Cooper, playing a key role as Forest earned promotion back to the Premier League.
A report from The Northern Echo claim Boro are yet to receive any formal offers for Spence, although they are expected to receive an approach in due course.
Tottenham were reportedly preparing a £10m offer for Spence, with sources in the north east suggesting Boro believe the north Londoners are playing a waiting game to drive down their asking price.
Boro responded to an inquiry from Tottenham at the start of the summer but have heard no more. When an approach does come, the north east club "will demand around £20m" for the young defender.
