Bergvall signs Tottenham deal after saying he wanted to leave
September 11, 2026 12:01
Tottenham have agreed a new contract with 20-year-old midfielder Lucas Bergvall, three months after he told the club he wanted to leave. The Sweden international had seen his minutes limited following the arrival of manager Roberto De Zerbi late last season.
Clubs including Aston Villa and Chelsea showed interest, and Nottingham Forest had a £38m offer turned down by Spurs. So far this campaign Bergvall has played 45 minutes in the Premier League. He said he is happy to extend his deal and wants to contribute more for the team.
KEY CONTEXT
- Bergvall has been capped 14 times by Sweden and became his country’s youngest man to appear at a World Cup.
- De Zerbi publicly described Bergvall as a very talented player but previously said he would not force anyone to stay. The manager also acknowledged making mistakes in how he handled Bergvall during a turbulent end to last season, when Spurs narrowly avoided relegation.
- Tottenham rejected Forest’s £38m bid and resisted other reported interest before agreeing the renewal.
WHY IT MATTERS
Keeping a highly regarded young international who attracted significant transfer interest signals Spurs want to retain and develop him rather than sell. The manager’s endorsement, coupled with his admission of earlier handling errors, suggests the club intends to give Bergvall opportunities to progress. However, Bergvall’s very limited playing time this season makes it important to see whether the new contract translates into more first‑team involvement.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether Bergvall’s minutes increase under De Zerbi and how his role in the squad evolves.
- If the midfielder begins to deliver the goals, assists and performances he says he aims for.
- Whether the club’s stated goal of providing a platform for his development is reflected in selection and playing time this season.
KEY FACTS
- Lucas Bergvall is 20 years old.
- He has 14 senior caps for Sweden and was his country’s youngest male World Cup participant.
- He asked to leave Tottenham three months before signing the new contract.
- Nottingham Forest had a £38m bid rejected; Aston Villa and Chelsea were also reported as interested.
- He has played 45 minutes in the Premier League so far this season.
- De Zerbi admitted mistakes in his handling of Bergvall and said the club wants to give him a platform to reach his potential.