by Such is the prized nature of young English talent these days that when a club has one they often do not want to sell. Spurs are having problems agreeing on a deal for Djed Spence, the flying full-back at Nottingham Forest who helped to knock the club out of the FA Cup. His nationality plays as much of a role in setting the fee as his age and quality does. So, with that in mind, Spurs fans might be hesitant to believe rumours that Liverpool are open to selling Joe Gomez this summer for a profit.
The England man has fallen out of favour with Jurgen Klopp, with Joel Matip, Virgil van Dijk, and Ibrahima Konate the preferred defensive options. A series of injuries, and then periods of poor form brought about by post-injury rust, has meant that Gomez has struggled to get game time for much of the last two seasons. Indeed, the last time he was even a regular in the team was the title-winning season. Since then, injuries and poor form has seen Klopp often revert to other options in his team.
Still more than young enough to get over this slump, though, Gomez could be put up for sale this summer. All reports indicate that Spurs as well as West Ham would be the most serious suitors, with a bid of around £40m expected to get the deal done. Given his age, his potential, and his overall ability, it would be a surprise to see Spurs not be involved for the player.
Gomez would fit in well with a Conte system, suiting his back-three style more than many of the other defenders on the books. It would appear that Liverpool are keen to move on, and Spurs could pick up a long-term squad addition by making the move this summer.
Spurs facing competition for England defenders
Of course, Spence and Gomez will be drawing intrigue from other teams. Another team mentioned for both players is Aston Villa, while newly-minted Newcastle United are said to be keen on the duo. Both players offer the opportunity to add a duo who are a good age, can develop further, and can also contribute now. Spence showed how good he was in the FA Cup tie; Spurs have seen how good Gomez is on more than one occasion in his career.
Making a move for both players quickly will be imperative if the Spurs want to make sure they do not miss out. Conte has made clear that he does need to hang around if Spurs are dithering on any aspect of the project. Potentially fuelled by fear of losing the most high-profile manager they have ever had; Conte will likely get what he wants from Spurs.
And if Gomez and Spence become him a list targets for those positions, Spurs would do well to make sure that a deal is done as soon as possible to keep the famously tempestuous Italian onside.
