Roberto De Zerbi sends Lucas Bergvall message over Tottenham future

Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi has admitted he cannot guarantee Lucas Bergvall a place in his starting XI after the midfielder's future was thrown into doubt earlier this summer.

The Sweden international informed Spurs he wanted to leave in search of regular first-team football, with Nottingham Forest seeing a bid rejected and Newcastle United also expressing interest.

However, Bergvall was handed a surprise start in Tottenham's pre-season draw with Sydney FC, offering a reminder of his quality despite fierce competition in midfield.

Speaking after the match, De Zerbi made it clear that no player at Tottenham is guaranteed a starting place.

"It's very clear, his idea. He wants space. He wants to play as a double pivot," De Zerbi said.

"I can't give, for any player in the world, the place in the first XI guaranteed.

"I want to be honest with the players. I want to be clear."

The Italian admitted Bergvall still has areas of his game to improve if he is to establish himself in Tottenham's midfield.

Despite the uncertainty, De Zerbi stressed he hopes Bergvall remains at the club.

"I think he's potentially a top player," he said.

"But I don't want to convince anyone to stay.

"I would like him to stay with us. He's very young, a very good player and a good guy. It's not so easy to find a young player of that level."

The Tottenham boss believes increased competition for places is essential if the club are to challenge at the top of the Premier League.

Bergvall faces stiff competition following Tottenham's summer recruitment.

Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali have strengthened De Zerbi's midfield options alongside Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Matar Sarr, Conor Gallagher and Archie Gray.

The 20-year-old can also operate in a more advanced role, although James Maddison, Xavi Simons and Mohammed Kudus are among the players competing in those positions.

De Zerbi revealed he has spoken with Bergvall several times about his future, including discussions before the end of last season and during the FIFA World Cup.

The Italian insists he now understands the midfielder's position but says any final decision rests with the player and Tottenham's hierarchy.

"If he doesn't want to stay, then what can I do? Nothing," De Zerbi admitted.

Tottenham are keen to keep Lucas Bergvall despite interest from Premier League rivals, but De Zerbi has made it clear opportunities must be earned rather than guaranteed. The midfielder now faces a decision over whether to fight for his place or pursue a move elsewhere.

Bergvall's future is expected to remain under discussion before the transfer window closes, with Tottenham hoping the young midfielder decides to stay and compete for a place under De Zerbi.