Villarreal continues to insist on a €12M forward

The Villarreal CF continues to insist on signing Thom van Bergen, a 22-year-old Dutch forward who belongs to Groningen. The Castellon team keeps the attacker among its targets to strengthen the front line, with a figure close to 12 million euros being considered to try to unblock the deal.

The forward is under contract with Groningen until June 30, 2028, after extending his deal on December 24, 2025. This extension allows the Dutch team to maintain a strong negotiating position in any talks that may occur during these final weeks of the transfer window.

Villarreal CF maintains its interest in Thom van Bergen

Thom van Bergen recently completed the 2025/26 season where he scored 9 goals and provided 4 assists in the Eredivisie. The forward played nearly 3,000 minutes, numbers that have increased interest in his future during this summer.

Villarreal CF has been monitoring his situation for several weeks and remains open to bringing him to LaLiga. Towards the end of July, there were reports of a possible deal close to 12 million euros, a higher sum compared to the 5 million previously mentioned by AZ Alkmaar to try to sign him.

Born on January 6, 2004, Van Bergen stands at 1.80 meters and primarily plays as a center forward. He developed in Groningen's youth teams and joined the first team in 2023, gaining experience in both the Eredivisie and the Dutch second division since then.

Groningen has the forward tied until 2028

The main obstacle for Villarreal CF's signings lies in the player's contractual situation. Groningen renewed Van Bergen less than eight months ago, and his current contract runs until 2028, meaning they do not need to offload the striker in this transfer window.

His last season further solidified his position within the team. The forward was a regular starter and finished the Eredivisie with 13 direct goal involvements, from his 9 goals and 4 assists. Additionally, he has started the 2026/27 season still featuring in Groningen's starting eleven.

During this summer, the player also had discussions with AZ Alkmaar about a potential transfer. However, that option did not progress, and Villarreal has continued to show interest in bringing him out of the Netherlands.

Villarreal looks towards the Netherlands

The investment in a 22-year-old forward aligns with Villarreal's aim to add another piece to their attack with room for development. The proposed expenditure of around 12 million euros also shows the club's willingness to make a significant move to secure his signing.

The next step involves bridging the gap with Groningen, who has the player secured until 2028. Villarreal CF continues to push for Thom van Bergen and will need to increase their negotiating pressure if they want to close the deal before the end of the summer transfer window.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Villarreal sigue insistiendo en un delantero de 12M€