Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi has publicly underlined his desire to keep Lucas Bergvall at the club amid reported interest from Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
Manager wants Bergvall to remain but cannot promise starts
De Zerbi spoke following pre-season action in which Bergvall featured, saying he would like the 20-year-old midfielder to stay at Spurs but making clear there are no guarantees about a regular starting place. The manager told reporters:
"I would like that he stays with us. I think he’s potentially a top, top, top player. But then I don’t want to convince anyone to stay."
The comments follow a report in The Athletic that Bergvall has indicated a desire for a new challenge, prompting interest from other Premier League clubs, including Nottingham Forest. De Zerbi stressed that squad competition this summer is intense and that he cannot promise first-team selection for any player.
Where Bergvall fits in Tottenham’s midfield
De Zerbi outlined Bergvall’s preferred role as a double pivot but reiterated that even a player of his potential must accept competition for places. He said he could not, "for any player in the world, give the place in the first XI guaranteed."
Tottenham have strengthened their midfield this window with high-profile acquisitions that add to the competition Bergvall faces. The club’s recent signings — reported transfer-record deals — have been highlighted as reasons playing time cannot be assured.
- Player: Lucas Bergvall, age 20, under contract until June 2031
- Interested clubs: Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest (reported)
- Manager’s position: Wants Bergvall to stay but cannot guarantee a starting role
Playing record and contract details
Last season Bergvall made 33 appearances in all competitions for Tottenham, totalling 1,465 minutes and scoring one goal. His contract at the club runs until June 2031, a factor that will influence any transfer negotiations and the club’s approach to retaining him.
| Stat | 2025/26 |
|---|---|
| Appearances (all comps) | 33 |
| Minutes | 1,465 |
| Goals | 1 |
Next steps and local interest
De Zerbi said talks with Bergvall and other players will continue in the coming weeks and that any player must demonstrate the right spirit and commitment to represent the club. For Nottingham Forest supporters, and those monitoring transfer activity locally, the statement from Tottenham’s head coach sets a clear marker: while Forest are reported to be interested, any move for Bergvall will depend on discussions between player and club and how both parties assess his prospects at Spurs.
Further developments are likely as the transfer window progresses and as pre-season fixtures give managers a clearer picture of their squads.
