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Roberto De Zerbi has already made it clear why Everton may struggle to sign Djed Spence

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Everton are going to be up against it if they do make their move for Djed Spence.

Finding a new right-back is high on Everton’s agenda for the coming weeks in the summer transfer window.

It has been suggested that Everton are showing an interest in Spence following his 2025/26 campaign with Tottenham Hotspur.

After watching him for England vs Croatia, I’m convinced he’d be the perfect right-back signing this summer! 🔥

Djed Spence #25 of England makes his way out to warm up before the International Friendly match between England and Costa Ric
Credit: Getty Images/Eddie Keogh – The FA

Spence would certainly mark an ambitious move from the Toffees, but Roberto De Zerbi’s relationship with the 25-year-old may prove a major stumbling block.

England v Croatia: Group L - FIFA World Cup 2026
Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images

What Roberto De Zerbi said about Everton target Djed Spence

Everton have numerous right-backs on their radar this summer, which includes West Ham’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

However, making a move for an England international would be a sign of the club’s ambition to really upgrade at the position.

During their brief time together since De Zerbi’s appointment in north London, the Italian has expressed his admiration for Spence.

“He’s a great guy. I love Djed as a guy,” said De Zerbi just a matter of weeks ago.

If you were Angus Kinnear who would you be going all out for this summer? 💰

Ivan Toney of Al Ahli celebrates after scoring the 2nd goal during the Saudi Pro League match between Al Ahli and Al Nassr. John Stones of Manchester City during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Manchester City and Salford City. Troy Parrott of AZ Alkmaar celebrates after scoring his teams third goal during the Dutch Eredivsie match between AZ Alkmaar and sc Heerenveen.
Credit: Getty Images/Yasser Bakhsh/Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Ed van de Pol/BSR Agency.

“After the game [vs Everton], I spoke to his Mum outside of the stadium and I said: ‘He’s got a big heart. He’s a big player’.

“We are all happy for his World Cup call-up.”

These comments only indicate just how heavily Spence is expected to be relied on next season by the Spurs boss.

There are a number of other obstacles that Everton may also come across if they do pursue Spence.

Spurs are showing plenty of ambition in this summer’s transfer market through the signings of Andrew Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke.

Winners' Shoot - UEFA Europa League Final 2025
Photo by Michael Regan – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

The same cannot be said for Everton, with the Toffees yet to get off the line in the market.

Something else that must be considered is the impact a solid World Cup could possibly have on Spence’s valuation.

The 25-year-old still has three years remaining on his current deal in north London and Spurs are not required to sell players.

From the player’s perspective, with Pedro Porro just signing a new deal and Robertson arriving, perhaps the guarantee of first-team football could appeal.

However, Spence may well demand a club that could offer him the prospect of fighting for European football.