Tottenham unlikely to sign a new right-back after Djed Spence’s departure with Archie Gray to provide depth

Tottenham Hotspur are not planning to sign a new right-back this summer, despite Djed Spence's imminent move to Inter Milan for a reported €35 million fee, according to club insider SpursJourno. The Premier League side has identified several targets across Europe, but has decided that right-back recruitment is a lower priority for the transfer window.

Instead, they will rely on Archie Gray to provide cover for Pedro Porro next season. Gray joined Tottenham from Leeds United in a €41.3m deal in 2024, initially playing as a central midfielder but also demonstrating defensive capability at right-back during his time at Leeds and following his debut at Tottenham. De Zerbi's tactical approach necessitates full-backs to contribute in central midfield during build-up play, a role in which Gray excels thanks to his technical ability and passing range.

In addition to Gray, Tottenham have internal options. Academy product Tye Hall has impressed during pre-season, and is primarily a midfielder, while Gray himself is versatile enough to play in midfield. The club's focus on internal recruitment will allow them to allocate more resources towards key attacking targets like Liverpool's Cody Gakpo and Manchester City's Savinho before the deadline.

Tottenham began their pre-season campaign with four consecutive wins, but suffered a 1-1 draw against Getafe in their latest match. They are set to host Hoffenheim in a friendly later today, one week before their Premier League season opener against Brentford.