Why Rio Ferdinand's assessment proves Djed Spence is the ultimate Everton transfer target

Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence lighting up the World Cup with England is getting Everton fans excited.

The full-back put in an impressive cameo as the Three Lions won their 2026 World Cup quarter-final against Norway 2-1 at Miami Stadium.

In the 86th minute, Thomas Tuchel replaced Nico O'Reilly with the Spurs star, who contributed at both ends of the pitch.

Rio Ferdinand demanded more respect for Spence, who has been linked with a move to Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The 25-year-old has been at the North London outfit since 2022, but has failed to cement his place in their starting line-up.

With Andy Robertson now at Tottenham, the Toffees may be able to convince him to join David Moyes at the Merseyside outfit.

What Everton can learn from Djed Spence display in England win vs Norway

Spence should be Moyes' ultimate target this transfer window after his recent displays at the World Cup.

Against Norway, the Spurs defender played 34 minutes, making seven defensive contributions, four clearances, winning one of his two tackles, three of his four ground duels and one aerial duel, according to Sofascore.

The full-back's attacking influence was also evident, completing one successful dribble, coming close to scoring from his one shot on target and winning a penalty for England, which was eventually overturned.

Spence also helped relieve some of the pressure on the Three Lions with his overlapping runs, leaving Ferdinand with just one message for those who doubt the Tottenham ace.

The Manchester United icon wrote on X after the game, "People need to put some respect on his name."

Why Djed Spence is transfer target number one for David Moyes

Everton have identified Spence as one of the options to address the crisis in their backline, with Tottenham expected to demand £25million for him.

Jake O'Brien has been Moyes' go-to right-back since his return to the Toffees, but the Republic of Ireland international shouldn't continue to play out of his natural position.

The Blues can solve a long-standing issue of a clear lack of balance on their right-wing with the addition of the Spurs full-back.

With Seamus Coleman leaving and Nathan Patterson's future uncertain after being a bit-part player under the Scottish manager, signing a quality right-back has to be at the top of the Merseyside outfit's agenda.