Brentford want Djed Spence in £15m transfer raid for Middlesbrough wing-back rated as best youngster in Football League

BRENTFORD are plotting an ambitious £15million move for Djed Spence and will fight Nottingham Forest for the player rated the EFL’s best youngster.

The Bees think Middlesbrough wing-back Spence, 21, would be perfect for their playing style.

Boro will sell to the highest bidder and Spence has been linked with some huge clubs at home and abroad — but Brentford are deadly serious about pulling off a coup.

The Bees have been keen on Forest stars Brennan Johnson and Joe Worrall in recent times but the exciting Spence is now top of their list.

Forest will try to make Spence’s stay full-time after taking him on loan and being able to extend his stay despite strong rival interest.

A move to the Premier League is in Spence's ambitions.

The wing-back has previously stated his desire to "play with the best players."

He said: "I always want to push myself and play with the best players and best team.

"I always want to push myself and play with the best players and best team.

"Of course it’s an ambition of mine to play in the Premier League. I try to stay level-headed. I don’t read too much into it.

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"At the end of the day, I’m just here to enjoy my football. I need to stay focused, have tunnel vision and play well on the pitch."

Former Middlesbrough boss Neil Warnock says Spence has "got the tools" to make it at the top level.

He said: "He could be playing at a top club in England or in non-league in five years, I don't know.

"There are not many players where you can say it's all up to them personally how far they go - it's what's between the ears.

"Application, dedication, all these things come into it. He's got the tools, there's no doubt about that.”