Tottenham Hotspur are facing a potential standoff with midfielder Lucas Bergvall, who wants to leave the club after recent signings.

What happened?

Bergvall is pushing for a move away from Spurs, with Nottingham Forest interested in a potential deal. The young Swede feels his pathway is narrowing with the arrival of Mateus Fernandes for £85m and Sandro Tonali for £100m. Tonali has already explained why he joined Spurs, saying Roberto De Zerbi played a big role in his decision.

Why it matters for Tottenham Hotspur

The club's midfield is now congested, with Bergvall, Tonali, Fernandes, Archie Gray, Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Sarr, and Conor Gallagher competing for central roles. This is a problem Tottenham Hotspur would rather have, as they are signing elite midfield talent and acting like a club with proper ambition.

What comes next?

Nottingham Forest are watching closely, and a potential £45m deal is on the table, with a sell-on clause attached. Tottenham Hotspur do not have to sell, but they also do not want the distraction of an unhappy player lingering in a position already packed with options. As of 06 Jul 2026, Tottenham Hotspur are 17th in the Premier League, with 41 points from 38 games, and a recent form of WLDWW. They are 44 points behind leaders Arsenal, and have scored 48 goals while conceding 57, with a goal difference of -9. Bergvall is not some random squad player, he is talented, intelligent, and looks like someone who could become a huge asset. So if he really wants out, Spurs should not panic and should not undersell. £45m plus a sell-on clause starts a conversation, but it does not feel like enough in this market for a player with his ceiling. Supporters will also trust Roberto De Zerbi to be honest with Bergvall, and if he stays, De Zerbi must convince him there is a real plan.