Tottenham Hotspur man makes sudden loan exit from Leeds United as 59-word statement released

Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence has returned to North London early after having his season-long loan with Championship side Leeds United cut short. The Elland Road club, according to the YEP, exercised the option to end the agreement early, as a short statement was released by the club on Thursday.

It read: "Leeds United can confirm that Djed Spence has returned to Tottenham Hotspur, bringing his loan spell with the club to an end. Spence made seven appearances whilst with the Whites after joining in the summer transfer window. We would like to thank Djed for his efforts whilst at Elland Road and we wish him well for his future career."

Spence arrived at Leeds towards the end of the summer transfer window, joining fellow Spurs defender Joe Rodon in West Yorkshire. There have been contrasting fortunes for the pair at Leeds, however. Spence made his debut against Sheffield Wednesday at the beginning of September but sustained a knee injury that sidelined him for 10 weeks, as he made just seven appearances for the Whites before seeing his loan deal cut short.

Spence joined Spurs from Middlesbrough in 2022 but has yet to get his career going in North London. The 23-year-old spent his final year at Boro on loan at Nottingham Forest, and played a key role as the club were promoted to the Premier League via the play-offs. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais, making 10 appearances in all competitions.

Rodon by contrast has been a key part of Daniel Farke's side since his move to Elland Road on a season-long loan. Leeds are eyeing promotion back to the Premier League following their relegation last season, with Rodon making 23 appearances in the Championship. Reports suggest Leeds are keen to strike a permanent deal but Spurs will demand at least £25m for the Wales international if they are to sanction an exit.