Tottenham Hotspur’s firm Lucas Bergvall stance has forced Newcastle United to step back after Spurs rejected their £46m offer for the midfielder.
Newcastle had identified the Sweden international as a possible replacement for Sandro Tonali, who moved in the opposite direction earlier this summer.
However, Telegraph reporter Luke Edwards says Newcastle are not currently prepared to meet Tottenham’s asking price.
Edwards added that the situation could change before the transfer window closes. Newcastle are focusing on other targets for now, leaving their Bergvall pursuit unlikely to progress immediately.
Tottenham remain in control because Bergvall is contracted until June 2031. ReadTottenham previously reported that Spurs rejected Newcastle’s £46m proposal despite the midfielder expressing a desire to secure more regular football elsewhere.
Tottenham can wait for Bergvall valuation
Newcastle cooling their interest removes one potential destination, but Nottingham Forest remain involved.
Forest have already seen an opening offer worth around £38m rejected. They are expected to return with an improved proposal, although another bid close to £45m may still fall below Tottenham’s demands.
Bergvall’s position has become less certain following the arrivals of Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. The 20-year-old wants regular minutes in his preferred central midfield role after falling down Roberto De Zerbi’s order last season.
Spurs do not need to sanction a reduced sale. Bergvall remains a highly rated young international with six years left on his contract, giving the club considerable negotiating power.
Newcastle’s decision supports Tottenham’s refusal to accept £46m. Spurs can either retain a valuable squad option or wait for another interested club to submit a package which properly reflects his potential.
Forest may now have the clearest route towards Bergvall, but Tottenham have already shown that they will not allow his transfer request to weaken their valuation.