Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has warned that any player unhappy at the club should ‘leave’, as speculation continues over the future of midfielder Lucas Bergvall.
The Italian made the comments ahead of Sunday’s pre-season friendly against Auckland FC in New Zealand, insisting he wants only fully committed players in his squad ahead of the new season.
De Zerbi demands full commitment
De Zerbi said motivation and pride are essential for his project at Tottenham and stressed that players unwilling to stay should leave.
“I was very clear at the start of my time in Tottenham. I said, who doesn’t want to stay in Tottenham? Who is not happy, is not proud to stay here, has to leave.”
He added: “I want the players to be proud and happy to stay here, to go on the pitch in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with big motivation.”
The manager’s remarks come after Tottenham rejected an initial £38 million bid from Nottingham Forest for Bergvall, with Forest reportedly preparing an improved offer worth £45 million.
De Zerbi admitted he has yet to discuss the situation with the 20-year-old Sweden international.
“Lucas is a big, big talent. If he wants to stay, I will be happy. Otherwise, we have to find a new solution.”
Spurs target more signings
Bergvall joined Tottenham from Swedish side Djurgarden in 2024 but saw limited playing time under De Zerbi after the Italian took charge in March.
Spurs have strengthened their squad this summer with the arrivals of midfielders Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, as well as defenders Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi.
Despite those additions, De Zerbi said Tottenham’s transfer business is not yet complete.
“We have to finish, we have to bring another couple of, maybe more, maybe not less, but a couple of players.”
Meanwhile, De Zerbi revealed Mohammed Kudus is close to returning from a thigh injury after missing the club’s pre-season tour, while Dejan Kulusevski remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a serious knee injury.