Djed Spence was left out of the Middlesbrough squad for their pre-season friendly against York amid speculation linking him with a move to Tottenham this summer.
The England youth international was not named in Chris Wilder’s squad to face the National League side as two separate Boro XIs emerged with a 3-2 win at the York Community Stadium.
It comes with Tottenham continuing to show an interest in Spence, who made a big impression during his loan spell with Nottingham Forest last season.
Antonio Conte’s side have been pursuing the 21-year-old wing-back throughout the transfer window but are struggling to get a deal over the line despite being in advanced talks (Sky Sports).
The Evening Standard revealed Spurs have had a bid rejected by Boro, who value Spence between £15-20million, with Conte making the transfer a priority.
Spence enjoyed a strong campaign with Forest and became a key member of the squad as they secured promotion to the Premier League.
He made 46 appearances across all competitions (Transfermarkt) as Steve Cooper’s side emerged with victory in the Championship play-off final.
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Spurs Web Opinion
Middlesbrough leaving Spence out of the squad could suggest they do not want one of their assets to pick up an injury and it could mean a transfer is edging closer.
Spurs have been after him for a while now so hopefully this means a deal is close to completion, which would be the best for both parties.
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