Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has made it clear he wants England defender Djed Spence to remain at the club, despite growing uncertainty over the 25-year-old's future.
Spence, who signed a long-term contract with Spurs last year, has attracted interest from Inter Milan and Everton during the summer transfer window.
Speaking about the defender, De Zerbi insisted Spence remains an important part of his plans, even after Tottenham's significant summer recruitment increased competition at right-back.
"I repeat what I said to Djed, and to Lucas Bergvall," De Zerbi said. "I would like you to stay if you want to stay. If you don't want to stay, if you want to leave, then you have to leave."
Tottenham have already spent a club-record £237 million this summer as they continue rebuilding the squad following last season's narrow escape from Premier League relegation.
Spence made 30 Premier League appearances last season, starting 23 matches as Spurs finished 17th for a second consecutive campaign.
However, the England defender faces stiff competition for a starting spot, with Spain international Pedro Porro occupying his preferred right-back role. De Zerbi praised Porro, describing him as "the best right-back in the world."
