Liverpool rethink Djed Spence move amid defensive injury crisis

Liverpool have reportedly abandoned plans to make a £35 million move for Tottenham defender Djed Spence despite an increasingly difficult injury situation in defence.

The 25-year-old is expected to return to Tottenham training in the coming days after England’s run to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaving him facing an important decision over his future in north London.

Spence had emerged as a potential option for Liverpool as the Premier League champions look to strengthen their defensive ranks following a turbulent pre-season.

However, despite their growing need for reinforcements, reports from the Liverpool Echo indicate that the Reds are no longer planning to pursue the versatile defender.

Liverpool’s defensive problems pile up

Liverpool’s decision comes amid significant uncertainty over their defensive options.

Conor Bradley remains a long-term absentee, while Jeremie Frimpong has struggled with fitness during the club’s pre-season tour of the United States.

The situation has been further complicated by the departures of Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate following the conclusion of the 2025/26 campaign.

Liverpool have consequently been exploring solutions in the transfer market and are reportedly in discussions with Barcelona over a potential loan deal for a defender.

Spence, who can operate on either flank, appeared to offer an attractive solution given his versatility and experience in the Premier League.

Yet the Reds have now apparently decided against making a move, despite interest in the Tottenham player from Serie A.

Inter Milan and AC Milan have both reportedly been linked with proposals for Spence, whose position at Tottenham has become increasingly uncertain.

Spence faces uncertain Tottenham future

Spence’s prospects of regular football under Roberto De Zerbi also remain unclear.

Pedro Porro committed his future to Tottenham by signing a contract extension before the World Cup, while Destiny Udogie and Andy Robertson are expected to be ahead of Spence in De Zerbi’s plans at left-back.

That could leave the England international weighing up his options once he returns to club football.

For Liverpool, however, the decision appears to be less about Spence’s quality and more about their broader priorities in the transfer market.

Attack takes priority at Anfield

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is reportedly more concerned about finding a replacement for Mohamed Salah, with the right side of the attack now a key area of focus.

Despite the injury problems affecting his defensive options, Iraola is understood to believe his existing defenders can cope with the situation until at least the January transfer window.

That stance has effectively ended Liverpool’s interest in Spence for now, leaving Tottenham with another decision to make over the defender’s future.