New Tottenham Hotspur signing Lucas Bergvall has now shared an honest account of why he chose the club over Barcelona’s advances.
Amid all of the talk regarding who Ange Postecoglou might sign this summer, the Sweden youth international’s arrival is perhaps going slightly under the radar.
The decision to allow Lucas Bergvall to continue his pre-season with Djurgarden before coming to north London seems to be a sensible one – he’s been in great form.
And perhaps some Tottenham fans will be hoping that Bergvall can take an immediate position in the first team squad, such is his quality.
Of course, like Spurs, Barcelona spotted that potential, an 18-year-old with the world at his feet, but still playing his football in the Allsvenskan.
And with both club’s making their approach, competing for Bergvall’s signature, the midfielder chose Tottenham.
Radu Dragusin had also just snubbed Bayern Munich to join Spurs’ exciting new project – a productive month for the club.
That being said, in an interview with The Athletic, Bergvall has just shared the reason behind his decision.
Ange Postecoglou’s ‘really good’ football convinced Lucas Bergvall to reject Barcelona
Speaking back in his native country, Bergvall shared a story of when Barcelona’s Sporting Director, Deco, came to visit.
And despite Deco’s best attempts, Bergvall’s heart and mind was already in north London.
He explained: “We were eating in the mountains with Deco, we looked outside and there were 150 people trying to get in.
“We got into a taxi, drove into the city and they were following us. We got into a garage and switched cars.
“It was a crazy day. I came home and needed to decide, but my gut feeling was always Tottenham.
“They play really good football and it’s fun to watch. Ange is doing a great job.
“When you’re looking at the team you feel like they’re going to new areas and are starting to build something.”
Of course, Bergvall will now be at the forefront of that future Tottenham are building.
Although not quite as young, recent signings Micky van de Ven and Brennan Johnson must have been convinced in a similar fashion, two players who could be even better next season.
Recently, Postecoglou has been keen to ensure that Spurs share his ambition, he’s sent a message to all associated with the club.
And perhaps Tottenham could actually demonstrate their penchant to improve with a clever free agent signing this summer.