Tottenham have questions to answer around the future of Luka Vuskovic.
Vuskovic, 18, signed for Tottenham from Hajduk Split in 2023, but the centre-back spent last season on loan in Belgium with Westerlo.
Having caught the eye with seven goals in the Pro League, there were calls for Ange Postecoglou to assess Vuskovic despite being unable to bring him back to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Having now moved to North London, the teenager has impressed, but was still an unused substitute in Spurs’ 3-0 win against Burnley on the opening day of the season.
With that in mind, a loan move could be considered for Vuskovic, although sticking around North London may prove to be wise.
MORE SPURS STORIES
This story includes exclusive comment from former Premier League midfielder Martin Allen.
Luka Vuskovic could avoid loan departure
As it stands, the Lilywhites have useful depth in the centre-back role with the likes of Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Kevin Danso.
With that in mind, there is likely to be a true lack of minutes available for the teenage defender in the bigger matches of the season.
Although that may be the case, introducing the Croatian into the side for cup games, as opposed to Bryan King’s idea of loaning Vuskovic to the Championship, may benefit him more.
This is the belief of former Brentford and Leicester City boss Martin Allen, who is unsure whether a temporary exit would help the defender.
Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, Allen said: “A loan could be positive, but I don’t think I’d be letting him go.
“With the amount of games that are to be played, domestically and in Europe, I think they’ll be keen to keep all their players and keep them onside.
“Vuskovic will get appearances off the bench and in cup games to develop him and get him used to the level.
“I think that will be far better for his preparation and will allow him to grow in the group, stay at the training ground and get a taste for it.
“If that hasn’t happened after a year, then maybe a loan move could be used.“
Luka Vuskovic could become Tottenham regular
As previously mentioned, the level of quality already available to Thomas Frank may prove to be a blow to the prospects of the ex-Hajduk Split talent.
Regardless of this, the Dane has to put faith in the youngster as soon as he can to integrate him into the Spurs squad, ready for years to come.
As the likes of Romero and Danso move on, there won’t be many better than Vuskovic to come in and take up the role on a regular basis.
It will now be interesting to see if a loan is arranged or whether the centre-back is given the chance to prove himself at the level.