Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has indicated he will speak with Lucas Bergvall this week to discuss the young midfielder’s future. This comes as Brighton & Hove Albion reportedly prepares a significant bid for the player, with other clubs also showing interest.
De Zerbi, speaking during Tottenham’s pre-season tour in New Zealand, stated his intention to have a conversation with Bergvall in the coming days. The outcome of these discussions will determine whether Bergvall remains with the club or is sold during the current transfer window. De Zerbi emphasised that he wants players who are happy and proud to be at Tottenham.
The manager acknowledged Bergvall’s talent, describing him as a “big, big talent,” but also noted the significant competition for places within the squad. He mentioned that if Bergvall wishes to stay, he would be pleased, but if not, a new solution would need to be found in collaboration with Johan Lange and Vinai Venkatesham.
Bergvall’s Future and Club Interest
Reports suggest that Bergvall has expressed a desire to seek regular first-team football, which he may find challenging at Tottenham this season. This follows the acquisitions of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes by Spurs.
Brighton is reportedly preparing a substantial offer for Bergvall, with sources indicating they are willing to meet Tottenham’s valuation, which is approaching £60m (€70m, $80m). This potential move could represent Brighton’s largest transfer in their history. Brighton’s interest follows their earlier successful acquisition of Luka Vuskovic from Tottenham this summer.
Nottingham Forest has also been pursuing Bergvall throughout the summer, holding extensive discussions. However, Brighton’s willingness to match Tottenham’s demands has reportedly altered the situation. Other clubs, including Aston Villa and Newcastle United, have held conversations with Bergvall’s representatives, and Fulham has also entered the picture.
Tottenham, while valuing the 19-year-old highly, is now prepared to consider offers if their valuation is met. The club has reportedly already rejected bids from Forest and Newcastle. With Spurs seeking a fee in excess of £50million, many European clubs are believed to have been priced out, leaving Premier League clubs in a stronger position to secure a deal.
Squad Updates and Transfer Market Activity
De Zerbi also provided updates on other players. Pape Matar Sarr and Rodrigo Bentancur were absent from the pre-season tour due to minor issues, and both were granted an additional week before reporting for training. Bentancur reportedly requested the extra time after a demanding last season, while Sarr had a personal matter.
Regarding injured offensive players, Mohammed Kudus is nearing a return and is expected to be available to work with the team upon their return to London. Dejan Kulusevski, who has not played competitive football for over a year due to a patella injury sustained in 2024-25, will be assessed in the coming weeks. De Zerbi stressed the need for caution with Kulusevski’s return, given his extended absence.
Tottenham has been active in the transfer market this summer, bringing in six first-team players. De Zerbi indicated that the club’s transfer window is not yet closed, with plans to bring in “another couple” of attacking players. He expressed satisfaction with the work being done by Lange and Venkatesham, highlighting the acquisition of experienced players like Andrew Robertson to improve the team’s mentality and experience after two seasons of 17th-place league finishes.
Tottenham is scheduled to play Auckland FC on Sunday at 3:00 p.m. local time in their first pre-season fixture in New Zealand.
Source: cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com