Tottenham have a genuine wonderkid on their hands in Luka Vuskovic.
Spurs boldly spent £12m to sign the Croatian from Hajduk Split in September 2023 when he was just 16 years of age – and the precocious central defender is showing exactly why with some inspired displays on loan at Hamburg.
The Croatia international has even been nicknamed “Air Vuskovic” in Hamburg due to his towering aerial presence.
Naturally, Tottenham fans have wondered whether this impressive form will lead to Luka Vuskovic being recalled – but SHZ now claim that is not the plan.
Tottenham told Hamburg they intend to leave Luka Vuskovic in Germany until the 2025/26 campaign ends
The German news outlet have now shared details of what was discussed between Tottenham and Hamburg during talks over the 18-year-old last summer.
SHZ claim that Spurs told Hamburg they “absolutely” want Vuskovic to see out the season on loan, and do not plan to disturb his progress by recalling the teenager.
Furthermore, it is said that Tottenham have a recall clause, but it can only be triggered on certain conditions. Firstly, Spurs need to have suffered two serious injuries in the defensive department under Thomas Frank for a recall to be allowed.
The north Londoners also need to inform Hamburg a recall is happening before the middle of January, to allow them ample time to find a replacement.
Ultimately, the relationship between Tottenham and Hamburg is considered to be “exemplary” – and Spurs have no intention of bringing Vuskovic back to N17 unless extreme circumstances occur.
However, SHZ add that Spurs made it clear to Hamburg that the Croatian will not be allowed to remain with them beyond the 2025/26 campaign, suggesting those at Hotspur Way intend to integrate him under Frank next term.
£12m investment could prove to be a superb bit of business
Eyebrows were raised when Tottenham spent £12m to sign Vuskovic – who had plenty of admirers – when he was just 16, but it is already looking like a move which will pay off handsomely.
It can take just one standout season in the Premier League for a defender’s value to absolutely soar.
For example, the CIES Football Observatory now rate Nottingham Forest No.5 Murillo at a sum of £63m after he helped the Reds finish seventh last season, a player they signed from Corinthians for just £11m in August 2023.
Vuskovic is five years younger – incidentally – so if he can take the Premier League by storm next term, Tottenham could well have an £80m asset on their hands, at least.