Tottenham Hotspur will be eagerly anticipating the return of Luka Vuskovic, with Hamburg supporters left in awe after an immense loan spell.
Following his permanent switch to the Lilywhites last summer, the centre-back was sent to HSV for regular minutes – and it could scarcely have gone better for all parties.
An instant fan favourite at the Volksparkstadion, Vuskovic has been talismanic for the Red Shorts, who sealed promotion and a return to the top flight after a seven-year exile.
The 19-year-old is regarded as one of the most highly rated young defenders in Europe and could play a major role in Spurs’ rebuild.
After his final appearance in front of the Hamburg faithful, the club’s supporters were left in awe.
MORE SPURS STORIES
🏟️ TOTTENHAM MATCHDAY HUB 🏟️
Line-ups, predicted XIs, player ratings, tactical verdicts, match analysis, and live Spurs form guides.
Get 24/7 updates from your definitive Lilywhites source
Hamburg fans do not want to let Luka Vuskovic go
An unbelievable presence in the backline, Vuskovic has proven crucial in this year’s survival push.
Astonishingly, the Croatian is set to finish the season as Hamburg’s top scorer, with six goals to his name.
In his final home match, the 19-year-old proved talismanic again, his first-half free kick opening the scoring in a 3-2 win over Europa League finalists Freiburg.
It has been a fantastic year overall for the Red Shorts, who have secured a finish above arch-rivals Werder Bremen on their return to the top flight.
As a result, the HSV fanbase are not quite ready to let go just yet.
Vuskovic wrote on social media: “I love this club a bit too much.
He would receive adoration from the Hamburg faithful, with the common consensus being: “We love you too Luka, we love you too.”
Alongside this, the rapturous support at the Volksparkstadion would unveil a banner reading: “Free Vuskovic.”
His performances on the pitch have, unsurprisingly, drawn high praise.
“We won’t see a centre-back of his quality at HSV for a long time,” wrote one supporter on X.
“Incredible talent, incredible player. He can achieve anything he sets his mind to.”
One supporter would joke, saying: “It could be that Vuskovic is the best footballer of all time,” while the praise continued across the fanbase.
And aptly, an X account covering Hamburg in English matched the tone of the defender, saying “I love you.”
Now, with the defender set to return to Hotspur Way over the summer, the Lilywhites will have to ensure that he is not just on the books next season, but an integral part of the coming rebuild under Roberto De Zerbi.
Tottenham must ensure that they keep Vuskovic
Naturally, the youngster has attracted attention from across the continent, with Tottenham’s form this season playing into the hands of potential suitors.
Though, should De Zerbi’s side secure their place in the Premier League, the Croatian has to be at the heart of the coming rebuild.
With Tottenham exits potentially looming for both Micky van de Ven and captain Cristian Romero, Vuskovic has the chance to make an immediate impact at the heart of Tottenham’s backline.
If one or both leave the club this summer, the succession plan is already in place.
Tottenham must first ensure any interest is kept at bay after an incredible campaign from the young starlet.
Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Tottenham Hotspur News Access
Get the full story from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Hotspur Way with our dedicated expert hubs:
Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from N17 and Hotspur Way.