Published Jul 3, 2026, 6:20 PM GMT+1

Emilio is an experienced football journalist who has worked at Football FanCast for over six years.

After graduating with first-class honours from the University of Central Lancashire in 2019, it didn't take long for Emilio to clinch his first job in journalism at Snack Media, now Valnet.

Emilio has written for a host of the company's biggest past and current football news websites - Vital Football, The Transfer Tavern and Football FanCast. 

Emilio's strengths include the intricacies of football transfers, while he particularly enjoys writing about the business side of football. He has covered Tottenham Hotspur on a weekly basis for a number of years now, developing a deep understanding of the culture and what Lilywhites fans engage with.

In his spare time, you can find Emilio travelling the world, or even in a boxing ring.

The Blues have already completed a £47m deal for Marco Palestra, a signing viewed internally as one for both the present and future after an impressive rise in Serie A.

Alongside that, Chelsea remain in active discussions over a move for Rayo Vallecano defender Pep Chavarria (Fabrizio Romano), as they continue targeting young, high-upside players across Europe.

Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix and Barcelona's Jules Koundé are being touted as options for Alonso's side at centre-back too, as the west Londoners seemingly look to add a quality centre-half who can bolster his potential back three.

There has also been movement away from Stamford Bridge.

Marc Cucurella has completed a departure to Real Madrid, with Los Blancos even having to issue a firm public statement denying any talks for his former teammate Enzo Fernández, despite persistent speculation linking him with a move to La Liga.

Against that backdrop of constant change, Chelsea are exploring midfield options once again, and Tottenham’s Lucas Bergvall is a player of real interest.

Chelsea eye Lucas Bergvall as Tottenham deal firm roadblock

According to talkSPORT, Chelsea want to sign the Swedish midfielder, who is already viewed as one of the most technically promising young players in the Premier League.

Ex-Man City boss Pep Guardiola is a known admirer of Bergvall, having previously called him 'unstoppable' in possession of the ball.

However, Tottenham’s position is clear: Bergvall is not for sale under any circumstances this summer.

Spurs have already informed the player of that stance, despite reported curiosity from both Chelsea and Nottingham Forest.

Roberto De Zerbi and Johan Lange are understood to see Bergvall as part of the club’s long-term core, even with the arrival of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes increasing competition in midfield, and held talks with the 20-year-old about his future.

Where Chelsea must look with Lucas Bergvall deal off the cards

From Chelsea’s perspective, the interest makes sense.

The club continue to prioritise young, adaptable players, and Bergvall also has the kind of tactical flexibility Chelsea increasingly value, able to operate as a deeper midfielder or in more advanced roles.

However, Tottenham’s refusal complicates matters immediately.

Bergvall is also tied down on a long-term contract, meaning Chelsea would likely need a significant shift in stance from Spurs before any deal becomes realistic.

If Chelsea are forced to look elsewhere, one alternative midfield option could be Khephren Thuram.

The Juventus midfielder offers more physicality, with greater experience at senior level and a strong presence in duels.

While less technical in tight spaces than Bergvall, he brings balance, power and defensive stability — qualities Chelsea have occasionally lacked in transition.

Thuram, who is open to a Premier League move after making 45 appearances in all competitions for Juve last season, also bagged nine goal contributions and is valued at around £34 million.

Reports in Italy suggest Liverpool and Aston Villa scouted him last term, and the 25-year-old's potential availability could be an enticing draw for Alonso.