Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has expressed a desire for midfielder Lucas Bergvall to remain with the club but emphasized that he will not guarantee the 20-year-old a regular starting position. Bergvall, who started Tottenham’s recent 1-1 pre-season draw against Sydney FC in Australia before being substituted at halftime, has attracted interest from clubs including Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.

De Zerbi described Bergvall as a talented young player with significant potential but made clear that no player is assured a first-team place at Tottenham due to fierce competition within the squad. "Tottenham is already, without me, a top club and we are not here to convince anyone to stay," De Zerbi said. "He can find space if he stays with us. The competition will be very strong because we are Tottenham and have to build a strong squad, not just 11 players." He added that managing a roster of around 21 or 22 players at a high level is necessary to compete at the top tier, particularly given the injuries Tottenham has suffered in recent seasons.

The Spurs coach acknowledged that discussions with Bergvall have been ongoing, including conversations before the end of last season and during the World Cup. De Zerbi said the player’s role in the squad has become clearer to him after getting to understand his characteristics better. While the manager appreciates Bergvall’s qualities and attitude, he noted the midfielder must continue to develop aspects of his game, especially adapting to the tactical demands of playing in central midfield, where responsibilities can vary between attacking, holding, and facilitating quicker ball movement.

Despite interest from other clubs and speculation over Bergvall’s future, De Zerbi stressed that Bergvall has not formally requested to leave. He also highlighted that if the player decides against staying, the decision would have to be addressed with Tottenham’s chief executive Vinai Venkatesham or sporting director Johan Lange. "We must have the right spirit to stay," the manager said. "If he doesn’t want to, what can I do? Nothing."

Bergvall’s inclusion in Tottenham’s starting lineup in the recent friendly suggests no immediate transfer is imminent. Meanwhile, Spurs continue their efforts to strengthen the squad this summer, focusing on adding attacking options to increase their goal-scoring threats. The coming weeks are expected to clarify Bergvall’s status as Tottenham’s season approaches.