Tottenham believe they're in a "strong position" to finally sign Djed Spence, according to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook.

Antonio Conte has identified 21-year-old as his primary top right wing-back target, but Spurs have so far proved unsuccessful in their attempts to bring him to north London.

What's the latest news involving Spence?

According to Sky Sports, Spurs have been chasing Spence's signature, with Fabio Paratici personally going to the City Ground to watch the England Under-21 star.

GiveMeSport The Verdict

The same outlet then claimed in June that Spurs were in 'advanced talks' to sign the ex-Nottingham loanee, although two weeks later they stated that Tottenham and Middlesbrough were still apart in their valuation.

Some three weeks later, Sky Sports revealed that Spurs were on the verge of reaching an agreement with the Championship outfit, with Spence set to cost Conte's side around £20m, including add ons.

The Telegraph backed up those claims, but reporter Michael Bridge believes that a deal isn't yet close. He said: "Talks are still continuing, they were reports last week a deal is extremely close - my understanding is it wasn't, but I know that both clubs would like to get this done as soon as possible."

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And after two of their main rivals for the deal recently signed alternatives, Crook reckons Tottenham are growing in confidence that they'll eventually reach a conclusion.

What did Crook say about Spence?

He told GIVEMESPORT: "There's a bit of a stand off because Tottenham have got their price and Middlesbrough got theirs.

"But I think Tottenham think they're in a strong position, because if you look at the other teams, Brentford were looking and have signed Aaron Hickey and Nottingham Forest have announced Neco Williams, so they don't want him anymore."

Do Tottenham have alternatives to Spence?

Tottenham have put so much time and effort in trying to bring Spence to north London, that backup targets probably aren't even being considered.

The youngster was expected to be one of their first summer signings, but given their productivity in the market this summer, they've already got five men on board from when talks first got underway with Middlesbrough.

Bridge also stated that Spence has made it 'very clear' that he wants to join Spurs, so it's now down to those at board level to negotiate a price and let the flying wing-back link up with Conte's side and prepare for the new season.