Liverpool were reportedly offered the chance to sign Djed Spence this summer, but after signing Ronald Araujo, their priorities have shifted.
Heading into the summer transfer window, increasing defensive solidity was a priority for Liverpool after a torrid 2025/26 season. Arne Slot’s team had a very soft underbelly which was exposed by almost every team they faced last season, leading to a record 21 defeats across all competitions.
While fans would have hoped for more defensive signings, the acquisition of Ronald Araujo on loan from Barcelona means they are not expected to make any more signings at the back. Hopefully, they will sign a defensive midfielder, but there hasn’t been a single credible claim reporting that this will happen.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed this on Sunday: “For those who were asking me, Ronald Araujo is a centre-back, will they sign also a right-back?” the Italian said. “But as of today, Liverpool see Ronald Araujo as a centre-back, of course, but eventually also as a right-back when needed.
“Obviously defensive, but also right-back. And so I don’t expect Liverpool to add anything else in that position, at least as of now.”
Liverpool were offered Spence by Spurs, but their priorities have now shifted
According to a claim made by journalist Ekrem Konur, Liverpool were offered Djed Spence, and while there was a curiosity there, a subsequent “shift of priorities” means Spence is not a target for the Reds.
Konur reports: “AC Milan is targeting Tottenham’s Djed Spence. The Rossoneri recently placed him on the transfer list, while Inter Milan had long-term plans. Tottenham valued Spence at around €50 million. Interestingly, Roma also previously wanted the 26-year-old, but considered the fee too high, preventing them from making the move. Spurs plan to use the proceeds from the player’s sale for new investments.
“Spence was also approached by Premier League clubs. He was offered to Liverpool, for example, but the Reds passed on the opportunity due to a shift in priorities. Meanwhile, although Manchester United manager Michael Carrick is aiming for a left-back, no concrete steps have been taken regarding Spence.
“After his World Cup appearances, the player wants to play regularly. He can’t count on that from Roberto De Zerbi, even though he wants to keep the England international. Spence’s future at Tottenham has become uncertain due to the presence of Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie.”