Inter Milan are in advanced talks to sign Tottenham and England full-back Djed Spence, in a deal worth a minimum of £25.6m (30m euros).

The 26-year-old has emerged as a key target for the Serie A champions, having enhanced his reputation at the World Cup, at which he made eight appearances.

Despite coming under criticism early in the tournament, Spence ended up starting and impressing in England’s World Cup semi-final defeat by Argentina.

Spence was named in Tottenham‘s Premier League starting XI 23 times last season as they narrowly avoided relegation.

He has made 85 appearances for the north London club after a £20m move from Middlesbrough in July 2022 and Spurs have begun the process of identifying potential replacements.

Tottenham manager Roberto de Zerbi said in July that he wanted to convince Spence to stay at the club.

De Zerbi added he sees Spence, who signed a long-term deal with the club last year, as an important part of his plans.

Spain’s World Cup winner Pedro Porro, who De Zerbi said is the “best in the world” in his role, currently occupies Spence’s preferred right-back position at Spurs.

The England defender played six times at left-back at the World Cup and featured 32 times on the left for Tottenham last season.

Spurs signed Scotland left-back Andy Robertson, 32, from Liverpool at the start of the summer.

Tim: It’s unbelievable if Spence leaves. Andy Robertson will not give us the longevity, although he is a great player with experience. Just look at the way he tackles and the pace he has. Spence will be superb soon, if he isn’t already.

Mark: If there’s one player I want to remain at Spurs, it’s Spence. He’s got everything you need in a modern full-back – pace, power and excellent technique. He absolutely loves defending and is great going forward. His pace gets us up the pitch. He was an absolute warrior for England at the World Cup and proved any doubters wrong. We must 100% hang on to him.

Jerome: Spurs should definitely keep Spence. He is a quality player with a strut and arrogance that singles him out from the rest. If we let him go, we will regret it.

Josephine: After last season, I see a better one ahead and good signings set the ball rolling. I would really like Spence to stay. He more than showed how good he is while playing for England. A must for Spurs.

Sean: I’d keep Spence, play him on the wing and as additional full-back cover. He’s pretty decent going forward.