Tottenham Hotspur let Luka Vušković join Hamburg SV on a season-long loan deal towards the end of last summer.
The Croatia international has played 1920 minutes from 24 matches and has been one of the standout players for the Bundesliga side this season.
As things stand, the centre-back will have to return to Tottenham after his loan spell in Germany.
Last week, Hamburg manager Merlin Polzin publicly expressed his desire to keep the 18-year-old.
Hamburg director on Tottenham man
Claus Costa, the German club’s sporting director, has been speaking to Sport1 to discuss the possibility of retaining the defender beyond this season.
Hamburg haven’t agreed a purchase option or obligation with Spurs as part of the loan deal. Therefore, the official says that as of now, there’s no chance of retaining him for long.
“Contractually, there’s no chance he’ll stay. It’s purely a loan, and we have no way to tie Luka to HSV long-term,” he said.
The Tottenham owned player has talked about his desire to extend his loan stay, to play with his brother, Mario. The latter is at Hamburg and is currently serving a doping ban until November.
Tottenham defender’s dream
Last month, Luka admitted he’ll make a decision on his future with Igor Tudor’s side at the end of this season.
On the possibility of the brothers playing together, Costa explained: “Of course, there’s this romantic notion that Luka will one day play alongside his brother Mario.
“Of course, we’re in contact with him [Mario]. He’s not allowed to train or play football for any club. But he’s in top physical condition, working hard with an absolute dedication and passion that is second to none.”
Former Spurs and Leicester City midfielder Steffen Freund was also part of Sport1’s panel. He’s confident Hamburg won’t be able to retain him because of the north London club.
“Tottenham will definitely bring him back. He’s playing so well; in today’s football, the system clearly takes its toll. I can’t imagine HSV has a chance of keeping him. That’s where the system comes in. He’s too good for HSV,” he added.