Nottingham Forest left it late, but they eventually landed the signing of Middlesbrough full-back Djed Spence on a season-long loan from Middlesbrough.

The 21-year-old had been linked with a move to the Premier League this summer. Leicester City and Southampton both made late moves for the exciting prospect, as reported by the Northern Echo, but it was eventually the Championship club who landed the signing.

Spence, who has played in a more advanced right-midfield role thus far this Championship season, has featured four times in all competitions during the 2021/22 campaign.

The versatile right-sided option made 38 appearances for Neil Warnock's side last time out, contributing with a goal and an assist.

Spence progressed through the academy ranks at Fulham, before making the move to the north-east in the summer of 2018.

The young defender has since featured 70 times for Boro, scoring twice in the process.

Revealing his excitement about his Midlands on Twitter, Spence tweeted: "Very happy to be joining Nottingham Forest football club, exciting times ahead 🌳📈! See you all at the City Ground soon! #NFFC" 

The verdict

With the late interest from the Premier League emerging on deadline day, it seemed that England's top-tier was going to be his next destination.

However, it is Forest who have secured his services for the year, and this is a very exciting addition for Chris Hughton's side.

Spence is just as competent at right-back, as he is as right-midfielder, giving Hughton versatility if need be.

The London-born defender will certainly bolster the club's defensive options, and despite adding three full-backs in the end, Spence is a player who could play a massive part for The Reds this year.