Not so sought-after? HSV favourite Vuskovic has fewer options | OneFootball

Just a few weeks ago, it seemed as though the whole football world was open to Luka Vuskovic. After his strong season at HSV, the Croatian center-back was considered one of the most sought-after defensive talents in Europe.

Now, however, a different picture is emerging: the number of concrete interested parties is said to be significantly smaller than previously assumed.

As reported by the Hamburger Abendblatt, Brighton & Hove Albion are currently Vuskovic’s only serious transfer option. At times, the 19-year-old had been linked with far bigger possibilities. Barcelona in particular had long been seen as the preferred destination of those around him.

The background: Vuskovic’s agent, Pini Zahavi, has excellent connections in Barcelona. Among other things, he maintains a close relationship with president Joan Laporta and also represents Barça coach Hansi Flick. Nevertheless, a move to the Catalans now appears to be off the table.

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Despite a strong HSV season: Vuskovic too slow for Flick!

The main factor is said to be the teenager’s sporting profile. Flick prefers quick center-backs for his high defensive line. Vuskovic’s greatest strengths, by contrast, lie in his tackling and his enormous physical presence. Pace is probably the area where he has the most room for development. Real Madrid are also said to have backed away from a possible transfer for this reason.

Brighton stand to benefit the most from this. The English Conference League side is currently considered the most promising candidate. Although the defender’s family is reportedly not entirely thrilled by this prospect, Brighton offer Vuskovic a clear career plan as well as a significantly higher salary.

Added to that is the fact that parent club Tottenham Hotspur are not planning long-term with the defender. Spurs have already strengthened their squad with new center-backs and are said to be open to a sale. However, according to the report, the North London club are demanding at least €60 million in transfer fees. In any case, a decision is unlikely to be made until after the World Cup.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.