Everton want to sign Middlesbrough defender Djed Spence
Everton have set their sights on Middlesborough youngster Djed Spence according to ESPN.
The 20-year-old is reportedly being looked at as an alternative right-back option to Max Aarons, though the Toffees remain hopeful of securing a deal for the Norwich star.
Wolves are believed to be leading the race to sign Spence, however, with Rangers also interested.
Boro are said to want £5million+ as well as add ons, and there are expected to be developments over the coming weeks.
Long-term option
We would love to see Aarons join but it is possible that Spence is the more sensible option.
He will cost a fraction of the price of the England Under 21 international but could be nurtured into a fine right-back over the next few years, like Aarons.
Aarons has the advantage of Premier League experience but Spence has played under Neil Warnock for more than a year, and has likely learned a great deal.
Per ESPN, Jose Mourinho is big admirer of Spence, and that suggests he has the defensive skillset to succeed in the top-flight.
His former manager Jonathan Woodgate is also a huge fan, calling the youngster "exceptional" in December 2019 [TeesideLive], when Spence was just breaking through.
We can see why, as Spence's flexibility allows him to play at right-wing back, which should appeal greatly to Carlo Ancelotti.
It will be a big ask for Spence to step-up to the Premier League but in Seamus Coleman he has a brilliant role model, and next year could be the ideal chance to transition from the Irishman to a young up and coming right-back.
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