Goal.com

Lucas Bergvall's name is doing the rounds at Barcelona once more. The Sweden midfielder's agents have gone hunting for a new club this window, with his hopes of regular football at Tottenham Hotspur fading fast.

Spanish newspaper "Sport" report that Bergvall's representatives have opened channels with several major European clubs, Barcelona among them, in a bid to find the player a way out of his tricky situation at Tottenham.

Spurs could demand around 60 million pounds to let him go. That figure has done nothing to change the thinking inside the Barcelona boardroom.

Deco settles Barcelona's position

Barcelona's board show no appetite for reopening a file they closed back in 2024, even with Bergvall's name back on the table. As far as the sporting department under Deco is concerned, the negotiation phase over the player ended for good, and there is no desire to revisit the deal.

Behind that stance lies a shift in Barcelona's current thinking on the midfield. The club want a player with different technical qualities to those Bergvall offers, with Spain's Rodri Hernández topping the list of priorities for the position and standing as the sporting department's most prominent target for the coming phase.

The door to Bergvall's departure

The move by Bergvall's agents lands at a moment when his situation at Tottenham looks more complicated than ever, following major changes to the midfield after an extremely difficult season that ended well short of the top places in the Premier League.

Tottenham signed Sandro Tonali and Matheus Fernandes, raising the competition for midfield spots and leaning on the new arrivals to fill key roles. Bergvall's route to regular minutes now looks tougher, and that has pushed his representatives to explore fresh options.

Barcelona were close to completing the deal in 2024

All of this stirs memories of a deal Barcelona nearly pulled off two years ago, when Bergvall was on the books at Sweden's Djurgården.

In 2024, Barcelona pushed their negotiations to an advanced stage to sign the young midfielder for around 7 million euros, plus 3 million in add-ons. The player had even arrived in Barcelona, met Deco and toured the club's facilities, all clear signs at the time that the transfer was almost done.

Then Tottenham entered the fray and changed everything, tabling a better financial offer to both the Swedish club and the player himself.

Barcelona chose not to match it or get drawn into a bidding war, leaving Bergvall to settle on a move to London.

Xavi Hernández, Barcelona's former manager, addressed the miss at the time, confirming that the rival club had presented a larger financial offer and that Barcelona did not want to raise their bid simply to win the race.

Barcelona's rejection was not an easy decision

Bergvall, for his part, revealed after joining Tottenham that choosing between the English club and Barcelona ranked among the hardest decisions of his career. The choice stayed open between the two for a long time, he confirmed, before he opted for a new adventure in the Premier League.

Two years on, the Swede's name is back in Barcelona's thinking through a different door. This time, though, the Catalan club are not meeting it with the enthusiasm they showed in those first negotiations.

Tottenham have officially ruled out the possibility of selling Romero to local rivals Arsenal this summer, as per The Athletic. The Gunners actively explored a surprise deal for the Argentine defender as they search for defensive cover. Arsenal require a new central defender after Saliba suffered a serious back problem. The 25-year-old played through the issue during France's World Cup campaign and now faces an extended period on the sidelines.

However, Spurs are completely unwilling to sanction a deal with their north London neighbours. Reports confirm that Tottenham will not do business with Arsenal under any circumstances.

Saliba's long-term injury has forced Premier League champions Arsenal into the market late in the transfer window. Although the French international does not require surgery, the club confirmed he will miss significant action. Arsenal previously submitted a formal bid for Aston Villa centre-back Ezri Konsa. That proposal was swiftly rejected by Villa, who are holding out for a £60 million fee for the England international.

With the Gunners turned away by Spurs, Atletico Madrid have now revived their long-standing interest in Romero. The Spanish giants are currently viewed as a much likelier destination for the 28-year-old centre-back.

Tottenham remain open to selling Romero abroad before the transfer window closes. Spurs have already agreed a €40m (£34m) deal with Inter for the defender. However, Romero has yet to finalise personal terms with the Serie A side. That delay has allowed other European suitors, including Atleti, to remain firmly in the race for his signature.

Spurs have already prepared for Romero's eventual departure by heavily strengthening their backline. The north London club completed a £52m deal for Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton and signed Marcos Senesi on a free transfer from Bournemouth.

Despite intense transfer speculation surrounding his captain, Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi insists he is still preparing for the upcoming season with Romero in his squad. Speaking this week, De Zerbi confirmed he has maintained direct communication with the defender.

"I texted with Cuti yesterday to make a plan for when he comes back to London but not for the transfer market," De Zerbi stated. "That's not my job. I know there are many solutions in the transfer market," De Zerbi added.

Romero will report back to London shortly, with his ultimate destination expected to be resolved before the window shuts.

According to BBC Sport, Atletico have opened formal talks with Tottenham to sign centre-back Romero this summer. Speculation surrounding the 28-year-old Spurs captain's exit has intensified despite him signing a four-year contract extension in North London last August. Tottenham are aware of the Liga side's interest, and agreeing personal terms with the player is not expected to pose any issue.

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has suggested that he will not obstruct players who wish to leave before the new season. Addressing speculation surrounding his squad's future, De Zerbi insisted he would "respect the will" of players should they decide to seek a fresh challenge away from the club. The manager's open stance allows the Spurs hierarchy to assess formal offers from Atletico.

Atletico's pursuit of Romero faces competition from Serie A giants Inter Milan, who are also keen on securing his signature. The defender, who featured in all seven matches during Argentina's run to the World Cup final last month, endured a difficult club campaign, suffering two red cards as Spurs finished 17th and missing the run-in through a knee injury, while defensive partner Micky van de Ven nears a new five-year contract.

Both clubs are preparing for advanced negotiations to agree on a transfer fee before the domestic season gets underway. For Atletico, signing Romero would fortify Simeone's backline after a campaign in which they conceded 44 goals in La Liga. Meanwhile, Tottenham must move swiftly in the transfer market for a suitable replacement should they lose their captain, ensuring structural stability under De Zerbi.

Tottenham Hotspur are on the verge of securing one of their most important assets for the long term, with Van de Ven close to agreeing a new five-year deal, according to BBC Sport. The Netherlands international defender originally joined the club from Wolfsburg in 2023 on a six-year agreement that was scheduled to run until 2029.

The move represents a significant victory for the Spurs hierarchy, who have navigated a difficult period on and off the pitch. Van de Ven has been a standout performer since arriving in the Premier League - playing a pivotal role in Tottenham's UEFA Europa League triumph in the 2024–25 season - and securing his long-term loyalty is a clear signal of intent from the North London club.

It was not always certain that the Dutchman would remain at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The central defender was reportedly considering his future in North London earlier this year, particularly during a turbulent campaign that saw the club fighting for its Premier League survival.

The arrival of Roberto de Zerbi, the former Brighton boss who replaced Igor Tudor on March 31 following a severe slump in results, has been cited as the crucial factor in Van de Ven's decision to commit his future to the club. After a turbulent period featuring three different managers in just nine months, the stability and style of play introduced by the Italian have convinced the defender that Spurs is the right place for his development.

Van de Ven has been vocal about the positive shifts occurring within the club’s infrastructure. Speaking earlier this summer, he highlighted the change in atmosphere following a stressful period that saw Spurs finish 17th in back-to-back Premier League seasons. 'It's really good that you can see the club has made some changes,' Van de Ven told BBC Sport in July. 'You can see the club has a new ambition.'

The defender did not hide his disappointment regarding the standards of the previous campaign, which saw Tottenham's battle against relegation last until the final day. 'Last season was a stressful season, unacceptable from our side, so to leave all of that behind and go into the new season fresh means a lot,' he added.

The prospect of playing under De Zerbi has clearly energised the Dutch centre-back, who believes the team will be far more entertaining to watch in the coming months. As Spurs prepare to kick off their Premier League campaign away against Brentford on August 22, the defender is eager to move away from the defensive frustrations of the past and embrace a more proactive approach on the pitch.

The 25-year-old believes the change was necessary for the mental well-being of the squad after a demoralising run of results. 'It's also going to be more enjoyable for people to watch because we'll be playing offensive football,' he said. 'It is something we needed because everybody was a little bit down.'

Liverpool stand to make a healthy profit on Gakpo if a sale is to be sanctioned, with it being suggested that he could cost Spurs up to £70 million ($94m). The agreement that took the 27-year-old to Merseyside came in at less than £45m ($61m).

He is now a seasoned Premier League performer, and showed during his time at PSV that an impressive tally of goals can be recorded. Liverpool have not seen enough of those qualities from a man that can operate out wide or down the middle as a central striker.

Questions are being asked of his value to the collective cause as a result, with Tottenham ready to test the resolve of a domestic rival. At the right price, it may be that Andoni Iraola and Co decide to cash in - allowing them to reinvest any funds generated in the pursuit of a suitable replacement.

Quizzed on whether Liverpool should be open to offers, given Gakpo’s inconsistency issues, ex-Reds striker Owen - who now helps UK gamblers compare online casinos as the British ambassador for Casino.org - told GOAL: “Well, he was consistent last year, but consistently poor. He had a good opening 10 games or something, but then for the rest of the season, he was pretty poor.

“Gakpo has already proven that he can be very effective in the Liverpool team. But it was a concern, his performances last season, although it was a concern a lot of their performances. It was a poor season.

“I don't think that's an impossible one. I just think Liverpool are probably... If they lose him, they're already desperate for wide men. If they lose him, are you going into the season relying on Rio Ngumoha? If you've got a replacement, then I can see it.

“It could happen. At the moment, I think they're looking at adding, I'm not sure they're thinking of getting rid of too many players. His season last year was not very good. However, he has proven over time that he is very good. That's an up in the air one.”

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Spurs are “in direct talks with Cody Gakpo’s camp over possible move this summer”. It is claimed that any deal depends on the “financial package” put in place and Liverpool’s bid to bring reinforcements on board.

The Reds have been heavily linked with France international forward Bradley Barcola, with an exit door at Paris Saint-Germain said to be opening up in front of the Champions League-winning 23-year-old.

Gakpo will also have a big say on his own future, with the Dutchman needing to determine which club surroundings will best serve his domestic and international careers. He looked lively again at times when donning the colours of his country at the 2026 World Cup.

When asked about his ability to deliver greater consistency for the Netherlands than he does Liverpool, the Eindhoven native said: “It’s a little bit different. How I play here, where the coach wants me to be, the freedom that I have at the club. That’s it basically.”

Roberto De Zerbi is delighted with new signing Jan Paul van Hecke at Tottenham Hotspur. Last season, though, they were on opposite sides, and one Van Hecke assist left De Zerbi furious.

Spurs fought relegation right up to the final day last season. In round 33, in mid-April, the London club hosted Brighton.

Xavi Simons put Spurs 2-1 ahead with 15 minutes left, but the score was 2-2 in the 95th minute. Georginio Rutter scored from a Van Hecke assist.

That result dealt Spurs another blow in the relegation fight. The club still survived on the final day and, shortly afterwards, De Zerbi sent Van Hecke a message, as he told Football London.

"I texted him, ‘Get lost, you wanted to relegate Tottenham at Brighton’s expense when you gave Georginio Rutter that assist. Now you have to come to me. You have no choice!’"

Even so, the message was at least partly tongue-in-cheek because De Zerbi and Van Hecke know each other well. They had already worked together at Brighton from 2022 to 2024.

Atletico are moving with intent to secure the services of Romero, a player who has long been admired by manager Diego Simeone. Accoring to Marca, the club's leadership is currently preparing an opening offer to Tottenham in the region of €30 million, hoping to finally land a player they have pursued for several transfer cycles.

The current situation at the Metropolitano requires a "one in, one out" policy to maintain financial stability. The potential departures of Ruggeri to Aston Villa and Nahuel Molina to Roma are considered essential steps before any formal acquisition can be finalised. These sales would not only provide the necessary capital for the transfer fee but also significantly reduce the wage bill, allowing Atletico to accommodate Romero’s substantial salary.

While Atletico are making their move, they are not alone in the race for the prestigious centre-back. Inter have already manifested their interest through a concrete proposal worth €35 million plus an additional €5 million in performance-related variables. This puts the Italian champions slightly ahead in terms of the initial financial package offered to the North London club. However, Atletico hold a significant advantage in the race: the player's personal preference. Romero has reportedly made it clear that he prioritises a move to the Spanish capital over a return to Serie A, where he previously excelled with Atalanta and Genoa before moving to the Premier League.

The lure of playing under Simeone continues to be a driving force for the Argentine international. Sources close to the player suggest he has never hidden his desire to work with his compatriot, and he even expressed this sentiment during Champions League encounters last season. To facilitate a potential move to Spain, Romero reportedly included a specific clause in his recent contract extension with Tottenham, which runs until 2029, intended to ease a transfer should one of the Spanish giants come calling.

Tottenham appear more willing to negotiate this summer than in previous years. Having previously held out for a fee in excess of €55 million, the London club is now understood to be open to bids starting around the €40 million mark. This shift in valuation has encouraged Atletico's sporting director, Mateu Alemany, to begin crafting a definitive roadmap for the transfer.

The negotiation process is expected to be delicate, as Tottenham are known for being tough negotiators. However, the pressure from the player's side and the competition between Inter and Atletico could accelerate the timeline.

Alemany is currently overseeing the final details of the outgoing transfers that will trigger the official bid for Romero. The club believes that the cycle of defender Jose Maria Gimenez may be nearing its conclusion, making the acquisition of a top-tier replacement even more critical. Romero is seen as the perfect fit to lead a new-look backline, offering the aggression, leadership, and technical quality that Simeone demands from his central defenders. The next few days will be crucial as the sales of Molina and Ruggeri reach their final stages, providing the financial green light for Alemany to present the formal proposal to Tottenham.

Atletico are moving with intent to secure the services of Romero, a player who has long been admired by manager Diego Simeone. Accoring to Marca, the club's leadership is currently preparing an opening offer to Tottenham in the region of €30 million, hoping to finally land a player they have pursued for several transfer cycles.

The current situation at the Metropolitano requires a "one in, one out" policy to maintain financial stability. The potential departures of Ruggeri to Aston Villa and Nahuel Molina to Roma are considered essential steps before any formal acquisition can be finalised. These sales would not only provide the necessary capital for the transfer fee but also significantly reduce the wage bill, allowing Atletico to accommodate Romero’s substantial salary.

While Atletico are making their move, they are not alone in the race for the prestigious centre-back. Inter have already manifested their interest through a concrete proposal worth €35 million plus an additional €5 million in performance-related variables. This puts the Italian champions slightly ahead in terms of the initial financial package offered to the North London club. However, Atletico hold a significant advantage in the race: the player's personal preference. Romero has reportedly made it clear that he prioritises a move to the Spanish capital over a return to Serie A, where he previously excelled with Atalanta and Genoa before moving to the Premier League.

The lure of playing under Simeone continues to be a driving force for the Argentine international. Sources close to the player suggest he has never hidden his desire to work with his compatriot, and he even expressed this sentiment during Champions League encounters last season. To facilitate a potential move to Spain, Romero reportedly included a specific clause in his recent contract extension with Tottenham, which runs until 2029, intended to ease a transfer should one of the Spanish giants come calling.

Tottenham appear more willing to negotiate this summer than in previous years. Having previously held out for a fee in excess of €55 million, the London club is now understood to be open to bids starting around the €40 million mark. This shift in valuation has encouraged Atletico's sporting director, Mateu Alemany, to begin crafting a definitive roadmap for the transfer.

The negotiation process is expected to be delicate, as Tottenham are known for being tough negotiators. However, the pressure from the player's side and the competition between Inter and Atletico could accelerate the timeline.

Alemany is currently overseeing the final details of the outgoing transfers that will trigger the official bid for Romero. The club believes that the cycle of defender Jose Maria Gimenez may be nearing its conclusion, making the acquisition of a top-tier replacement even more critical. Romero is seen as the perfect fit to lead a new-look backline, offering the aggression, leadership, and technical quality that Simeone demands from his central defenders. The next few days will be crucial as the sales of Molina and Ruggeri reach their final stages, providing the financial green light for Alemany to present the formal proposal to Tottenham.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham have already reached an agreement on personal terms with Savinho. The winger has formally requested a transfer from City in order to play under head coach Roberto De Zerbi. Talks between the two clubs are progressing as City hold out for their full £60m valuation. The Cityzens have also made any final approval conditional on securing a replacement in the transfer market first.

Tottenham turned their attention to Savinho after Liverpool flatly refused to negotiate for priority target Cody Gakpo. The Reds rejected all approaches as they sought to maintain depth across their frontline.

Having encountered difficulties securing a second wide player, Tottenham shifted their focus towards signing an established central striker. Spurs have now initiated contact over Jackson, who is valued at £65m by Chelsea following Danny Welbeck's arrival at Stamford Bridge.

The 25-year-old spent last season on loan at Bayern Munich, where he featured primarily from the substitutes' bench. As per Daily Mail, Jackson is now eager to secure a permanent move to guarantee regular first-team football. With six strikers currently in their squad, Chelsea are willing to authorise Jackson's departure if Spurs meet their asking price.

Tottenham executives are scheduled to hold a formal meeting with City leadership during the second week of August 2026. The Spurs hierarchy want to finalise the agreement for Savinho prior to 10 August. Once the Brazilian's transfer is wrapped up, Tottenham will immediately submit their official £65m opening proposal to Chelsea for Jackson.

De Zerbi and the Tottenham board are pushing to have both deals completed before the start of the Premier League season to ensure their revamped frontline is ready.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham have already reached an agreement on personal terms with Savinho. The winger has formally requested a transfer from City in order to play under head coach Roberto De Zerbi. Talks between the two clubs are progressing as City hold out for their full £60m valuation. The Cityzens have also made any final approval conditional on securing a replacement in the transfer market first.

Tottenham turned their attention to Savinho after Liverpool flatly refused to negotiate for priority target Cody Gakpo. The Reds rejected all approaches as they sought to maintain depth across their frontline.

Having encountered difficulties securing a second wide player, Tottenham shifted their focus towards signing an established central striker. Spurs have now initiated contact over Jackson, who is valued at £65m by Chelsea following Danny Welbeck's arrival at Stamford Bridge.

The 25-year-old spent last season on loan at Bayern Munich, where he featured primarily from the substitutes' bench. As per Daily Mail, Jackson is now eager to secure a permanent move to guarantee regular first-team football. With six strikers currently in their squad, Chelsea are willing to authorise Jackson's departure if Spurs meet their asking price.

Tottenham executives are scheduled to hold a formal meeting with City leadership during the second week of August 2026. The Spurs hierarchy want to finalise the agreement for Savinho prior to 10 August. Once the Brazilian's transfer is wrapped up, Tottenham will immediately submit their official £65m opening proposal to Chelsea for Jackson.

De Zerbi and the Tottenham board are pushing to have both deals completed before the start of the Premier League season to ensure their revamped frontline is ready.