Newcastle United have entered the race to sign Middlesbrough right-back Djed Spence this summer, despite Tottenham Hotspur being front runners for his signature after it was revealed that the 21-year-old prefers the idea of joining the north London outfit.
The England Under-21 international hit the headlines during the 2021-22 campaign after flourishing for Nottingham Forest in his season-long loan spell from Boro, in which he made 46 appearances in all competitions as the Championship outfit were promoted to the Premier League.
And according to football.london, the Magpies are now keen on making a swoop for Spence, and have joined the long list of potential suitors who are fighting for his signature ahead of next season.
However, Eddie Howe faces a tough task of sealing a deal for the 6ft 1in full-back, who is said to favour a move to Spurs this summer due to the opportunity of working under Antonio Conte and having the promise of Champions League football, while featuring for a club at the top end of the Premier League.
But, Spence has also made it clear that he does not wish to join a top-end club if he is simply going to be sent out on loan again for the season, having already endured a temporary spell away from his parent club this campaign, and this could very well play into Howe's hands.
The 21-year-old wants to be playing regular first-team football and if that cannot be promised to him at Spurs, or any other top club, then he may well turn them down in favour of someone else like the Magpies, where opportunities to start regularly will be more frequent.
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As well as this, Spence is already based in the north east with Middlesbrough, meaning that he would not have to relocate or travel far to St. James' Park if a move was to materialise, and this could play a big part in his decision when it comes to discussing his personal preference.
Although, one thing that could prevent the Championship Young Player of the Season nominee from joining the Magpies is Kieran Trippier. The England international was signed for £13million in the January transfer window and is Newcastle's current number one at right-back.
Emil Krafth and Javier Manquillo are the current back-ups for Trippier at St. James' Park, and although the former did a respectable job when filling in for the ex-Tottenham man, Spence is certainly better than both of them, and they would be expected to leave if he did join.
Nonetheless, Spence won't want to be sat on the bench for a season on Tyneside, nor will Trippier, and it is hard to see Howe being able to please both if the 21-year-old does join. Newcastle certainly need to prioritise other areas of the pitch first, while Spence will not decide his future until after his international duty is finished this month.
