Brighton may have convinced Luka Vuskovic over their project, but Tottenham are reportedly not ready to part ways with one of Europe’s most highly-rated young defenders.
Tottenham Hotspur face a major decision over the future of Luka Vuskovic this summer after the teenager’s outstanding loan spell in Germany attracted interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe, including Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Liverpool.
The Croat joined Spurs from Hajduk Split but is still waiting to make his competitive debut for the club. Tottenham are keen to hand him a new contract, a move that would effectively signal that he remains a key part of their long-term plans.
However, the situation is far from straightforward. Vuskovic wants regular first-team football, and Spurs already have plenty of options at centre-back, even if Cristian Romero leaves as expected.
The youngster would still be competing with Kevin Danso, Marcos Senesi and potentially Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke, for whom Tottenham have already seen two bids rejected and a third underway, in which the Seagulls have also involved Vuskovic.
Tottenham not convinced by Brighton’s Luka Vuskovic proposal
We previously reported that Brighton had submitted a £30 million bid for Vuskovic, which surprised many given the defender’s reputation as one of the brightest young centre-backs in world football.
However, Vuskovic himself is believed to be open to the move as he has already held discussions with Fabian Hurzeler regarding his role at Brighton and is attracted by the club’s track record of developing young talent. And for those reasons, personal terms have been agreed.
Despite that, there has never been much confidence that Tottenham would accept the offer. Sources close to the situation have revealed that Spurs have no intention of selling at Brighton’s proposed valuation. The Daily Mail has now backed that stance, reporting that Tottenham remain reluctant to part ways with the Croatian, particularly for a fee that does not reflect his long-term potential.
When will Tottenham make a final decision on Luka Vuskovic?
It remains unclear whether Vuskovic will be part of Roberto De Zerbi‘s plans next season or spend another year away from north London.
Current indications suggest Tottenham will wait until after the World Cup before making a final decision. The 19-year-old has been called up by Croatia, and another strong tournament could raise both his profile and market value even further.
With that in mind, there is little incentive for Spurs to rush into accepting Brighton’s proposal. De Zerbi has already spoken about wanting the majority of his squad in place before pre-season, and Tottenham supporters will certainly hope that Vuskovic is included in those plans.
- READ MORE: Jan Paul van Hecke to Tottenham is getting ‘closer’ as Brighton bid £30m for Luka Vuskovic