Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall has formally requested a transfer this summer, according to reports, after falling down the pecking order under new head coach Roberto De Zerbi. The 20-year-old Sweden international, who joined Spurs from Djurgardens in 2024 ahead of Barcelona and other European clubs, made 45 appearances in his debut season but saw his game-time diminish last term.
De Zerbi's midfield overhaul sidelines Bergvall
De Zerbi, who took over at the end of the season, has preferred a midfield trio of Rodrigo Bentancur, Joao Palhinha and Conor Gallagher, often leaving Bergvall on the bench. The competition is set to intensify further, with Spurs pursuing Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali and West Ham's Mateus Fernandes. An opening offer of £75 million for Tonali was rejected by Newcastle, who are holding out for at least £85 million.
According to The Athletic, Bergvall has informed Tottenham of his desire to be sold after attracting interest from Chelsea and Aston Villa during the January transfer window. Spurs rebuffed those approaches earlier in the year but are now more receptive to negotiations given the player's stance.
World Cup focus amid transfer uncertainty
Bergvall's immediate focus is on Sweden's World Cup campaign, where he has come off the bench in both group games so far – a 5-1 win over Tunisia and a 5-1 defeat to Netherlands. He became Sweden's youngest ever World Cup player when he appeared in the opening match against Tunisia. Sweden, managed by former Chelsea and Brighton boss Graham Potter, face Japan in their final Group F fixture on Friday.
It remains unclear whether Chelsea or Aston Villa will revive their interest, but sources indicate that suitors both domestically and abroad are 'alert' to the situation. Chelsea are expected to make several new signings this summer as Xabi Alonso prepares to take over at Stamford Bridge.
Bergvall's future at Spurs in doubt
Bergvall's reduced role under De Zerbi, combined with the potential arrivals of Tonali and Fernandes, has prompted the midfielder to seek a new challenge elsewhere. Tottenham had previously rejected approaches from Premier League rivals but may now be willing to negotiate a sale. The club's stance could shift further depending on Bergvall's performances at the World Cup and the level of interest from potential buyers.
