Tottenham want to sell player for big profit who's 'two levels below Martin Odegaard' - Spurs recruitment expert
Tottenham Hotspur will sell Lucas Bergvall this summer as Roberto De Zerbi does not rate him.
That is the opinion of former senior Tottenham scout, Bryan King, speaking exclusively to Football Insider.
The 20-year-old is keen to leave North London this summer and has attracted interest from both Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
The Magpies have had a £46million proposal turned down for Bergvall, with Tottenham reportedly looking for around £60m.
Nottingham Forest have also had a bid turned down for the Sweden international, as both clubs attempt to replace key players.
Newcastle have sold Sandro Tonali and are braced for Arsenal's Bruno Guimaraes bid, while the Tricky Trees have already sold Elliot Anderson to Manchester City in a £116m deal.
Tottenham do not want Lucas Bergvall
Bergvall was a revelation following his £8.5m move from Djurgarden in 2024. The youngster had been heavily touted by Barcelona and it was instantly clear why.
Under Ange Postecoglou, the midfielder was thrown in from the start and looked to find his feet quickly in the Premier League, becoming a key part of the Australian's team in the second half of the campaign.
But Thomas Frank's arrival and injuries made minutes harder to come by last season, with Roberto De Zerbi handing Bergvall only brief substitute appearances after his appointment.
"I don't rate him. He's not a player who's going to bring a championship to a football club for me. He's a good footballer, but he's two shots below [Martin] Odegaard in the way he plays the game," King told Football Insider.
"Good energy, but I can see this new manager, the same as me, I don't think he rates him either, and if they can get that kind of money for him, then I'm sure he's going to move on.
"I can't see his future being with this new manager. It'll be a good move for the club and for him financially. The club will receive money, way over what they paid for him. So, I can see that happening, but he does nothing for me at all."
Tottenham face young talent exodus
Luka Vuskovic has already left Tottenham this summer, joining Brighton in a £50m deal amid a desire for playing time.
Bergvall could be next, but he might not be the last young talent to leave the Lilywhites this summer.
Mikey Moore, Archie Gray and Mathys Tel have also been linked away, with Tottenham's recruitment drive coming with an unfortunate side effect.
For decision-makers, however, the benefits likely outweigh the consequences after such a dismal season.