Tottenham boss De Zerbi says unhappy players must leave amid Lucas Bergvall transfer saga

Roberto De Zerbi told Tottenham’s squad that any player who is not happy or proud to stay at the club “has to leave”. He made the remark ahead of a pre‑season friendly in Auckland, New Zealand, stressing the need for motivation and pride.

Midfielder Lucas Bergvall, who joined from Djurgården in 2024, has indicated a desire to move on. Tottenham have turned down an initial £38 million bid from Nottingham Forest and have not set a firm asking price, but several clubs are reported to be interested. Newcastle United are prepared to increase their offer to around £60 million, while Sunderland have reportedly tabled a €66 million package with bonuses. The club’s recent summer signings – midfielders Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes and defenders Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi – have tightened the squad, prompting De Zerbi to say there will be “big competition” for places.

De Zerbi said he has not yet spoken to Bergvall but will do so in the coming days to decide the best outcome for the player and the club. The manager also reiterated his policy that players who are not proud to wear the Tottenham shirt should seek a move elsewhere.