Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto de Zerbi has opened the door for Djed Spence and Lucas Bergvall to leave the club this summer.
Speaking about the duo, de Zerbi said he wants players who are committed to the project.
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“I would like you to stay if you want to stay.
If you don't want to stay, if you want to leave, then you have to leave,” he said.
Spence and Bergvall Face Uncertain Futures
Spence, 25, made 23 Premier League starts last season but now faces competition from Pedro Porro, whom de Zerbi called the “best in the world” in that position.
Bergvall, a 20-year-old Swedish international, has seen his playing time reduced after Tottenham's recent midfield signings.
De Zerbi acknowledged Bergvall's talent but stressed no player is guaranteed a starting spot.
“I can't give, for any player in the world, the place in the first XI guaranteed, especially for me,” he said.
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“If he wants to stay, I will be happy. Otherwise, we have to find a new solution with Johan Lange and Vinai Venkatesham.”
Newcastle United have shown interest in Spence, and de Zerbi's comments could boost their chances.
Newcastle are also reportedly considering a £60 million bid for Bergvall, though Tottenham have rejected offers around £50 million.
Sunderland have submitted a €66 million bid, close to Tottenham's valuation, and Bergvall reportedly prefers a move to the Black Cats.
Nottingham Forest have also pursued Bergvall as a replacement for Elliot Anderson but have yet to meet Tottenham's asking price.
De Zerbi emphasized the importance of squad motivation, saying he wants “proud players who are happy to stay here and to go on the pitch at Tottenham Stadium with a big motivation.”
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Tottenham have spent a record £237 million this summer, signing players like Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, and continue to target attacking reinforcements.