MIDDLESBROUGH remain determined to extract the maximum possible value for Djed Spence as discussions with Tottenham over the wing-back reach a critical phase.

Spurs have stepped up their interest in Spence significantly in the last couple of days, and while a deal has still not been agreed, Boro officials increasingly feel that a breakthrough is close.

However, the Teessiders continue to stand firm over both the value of the overall package for the 21-year-old, who remains on an extended break following his participation in both the play-offs and England Under-21s’ post-season internationals, and the way in which the transfer agreement is structured.

The Northern Echo:

Boro’s recruitment team are adamant they will not accept less than £20m for Spence, and are pushing for as much of the fee as possible to be paid in an up-front payment and not be dependent on add-on clauses being met.

Spurs are understood to be proposing an initial fee of around £15m, which does not meet Boro’s requirements.

Talks are ongoing, with an expectation that Tottenham’s negotiating team will eventually shift their position to enable a compromise. Antonio Conte has pushed extremely hard for Spence’s signature as part of a summer of significant change at Spurs that has already seen the arrival of Fraser Forster, Ivan Perisic and Yves Bissouma and is also set to see Richarlison join from Everton.

Spence has been the subject of competing interest from Nottingham Forest and Brentford, but the Londoner has not wavered from his desire to join Spurs.

His exit will aid Boro’s attempts to improve their own squad this summer, with Chris Wilder determined to add a proven goalkeeper and up to three new forwards to his ranks before the transfer window closes.

Discussions have taken place with Manchester City over American shot-stopper Zac Steffen, and Boro have also held talks with David McGoldrick, who is a free agent following his release from Sheffield United.