Manchester United could have a third opportunity to sign Lucas Bergvall, a midfielder who previously had two trials at the club before joining Tottenham Hotspur in 2024. The 20-year-old Sweden international is reportedly weighing up his future this summer after a disjointed campaign at Spurs.
Bergvall's rise and fall at Tottenham
Bergvall was a breakthrough star in his first season with Tottenham, winning the supporters' player of the year award. He played a key role in the club's Europa League triumph, although he missed the final against United due to injury. However, his status at the club has since diminished. According to BBC Sport, Bergvall's representatives have held talks with Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, and Chelsea as the player explores his options after falling down the pecking order under manager Roberto De Zerbi, who is targeting Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali.
United's previous interest in Bergvall
United first showed interest in Bergvall when he was a teenager. His first trial at the club came in 2020, shortly before Brexit regulations prevented clubs from signing under-18 players from overseas. He returned for a second trial in 2022, but a turnover in recruitment staff meant United did not finalise a move, as reported by MEN Sport. Bergvall then signed for Swedish side Djurgarden, where his performances prompted Spurs to make their move in 2024.
Current midfield needs at United
United are in the market for central midfielders following Casemiro's exit this summer. The club has already struck a deal for Atalanta's Ederson and has been linked with several other players. Bergvall's situation presents an opportunity to correct past mistakes. He has previously been likened to Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong, a former United transfer target. Djurgarden sports coordinator Peter Kisfaludy told football.london in 2024: "His best position is as a number eight. He's a box-to-box player, running into the box and he's really good at playing the ball between the lines. He's a little copy of Frenkie de Jong. He's really fast with the ball, really good with the ball and a fantastic dribbler."
Bergvall's potential move
Bergvall earned just 11 league starts last term as his career stalled at Spurs. He will be eager to secure regular playing time next season. While guaranteeing a spot in United's midfield would be a tough task, the young midfielder could end a transfer saga that began six years ago by arriving at Old Trafford. United are already aware of his potential and what he could add to the squad as Michael Carrick's side undergoes its own midfield rebuild.
