Sweden World Cup star Lucas Bergvall has informed Tottenham of his desire to leave the Premier League club this summer, according to reports.
Spurs beat a number of European clubs, including Barcelona, to sign Bergvall from Swedish outfit Djurgardens in 2024.
The 20-year-old made 45 appearances across his first season in north London but saw his game-time reduce last term.
New Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi favoured a midfield of Rodrigo Bentancur, Joao Palhinha and Conor Gallagher after he took over towards the end of the season, often leaving Bergvall on the bench.
Don’t miss a World Cup moment
Lionel Messi’s hat-trick. Cape Verde’s heroics. Those Scottish fans.
It’s been a memorable World Cup so far – our daily newsletter helps you make the most of it. Sign up.
It is possible that Bergvall would face even more competition at Spurs next season as De Zerbi has sanctioned moves for Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali and West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes.
Tottenham’s interest in Tonali is more advanced, with an opening offer worth £75m rejected by Newcastle, who are holding out for at least £85m.
Bergvall’s focus is currently on Sweden’s World Cup campaign, having featured from the bench in their opening two group games – a 5-1 win over Tunisia and a 5-1 defeat to Netherlands.
But the midfielder also has one one on his future and has informed Spurs that he wants to leave this summer to seek a new challenge elsewhere.
The Athletic say Tottenham have been made aware of his desire to be sold after he attracted interest from Chelsea and Aston Villa during the January transfer window.
Spurs rebuffed approaches from their Premier League rivals earlier in the year but would be more receptive to talks given Bergvall’s stance.
It is not clear whether Chelsea or Villa could revive their interest but it is claimed suitors both domestically and abroad are ‘alert’ to the situation.
Chelsea are expected to bring in several new signings this summer as Xabi Alonso prepares to take over at Stamford Bridge.
Bergvall became Sweden’s youngest World Cup player when he came on in his nation’s opening group game against Tunisia.
Sweden, managed by ex-Chelsea and Brighton boss Graham Potter, face highly-rated Japan in their final Group F game on Friday.
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.