Seeking Vuskovic replacement: HSV eye Austrian World Cup star | OneFootball

It is probably the toughest task of this HSV summer: A replacement for departing defensive leader Luka Vuskovic is needed!

After his outstanding year at the Volkspark, the Croatian is returning to Tottenham Hotspur, leaving behind a gap that will be almost impossible to fill in a direct one-to-one comparison. Even so, the Rothosen are scanning the market for possible successors. Sky Austria has also brought up the name Michael Svoboda.

The 27-year-old is currently taking part in the World Championship in North America with Austria. Although the center-back did not feature in the 3–1 opening win over Jordan, he still enjoys an excellent reputation in his home country. Just a few weeks ago, Svoboda led Venezia FC back to Serie A and proved to be a key part of the defense along the way.

What makes him interesting from HSV’s point of view: Despite extending his contract until 2029, the defender could leave the Italian club again as early as this summer. According to media reports, Svoboda has a release clause that can be activated from July onward. Brighton & Hove Albion in particular are said to be showing strong interest. Coach Fabian Hürzeler apparently wants to bring the Austrian to the Premier League. The twist: the Seagulls are also currently in talks over Vuskovic — the very player Svoboda would replace in Hamburg.

Photo: Getty Images

HSV waiting for its chance with Svoboda

However, no final decision has been made yet. That could be exactly where HSV’s opportunity lies. According to reports, the Hanseatic club are monitoring the situation closely and are among the teams looking into Svoboda. Borussia Mönchengladbach are also considered a candidate.

With his experience in Italian football and his international résumé, Svoboda offers a very intriguing profile, including quality in build-up play. However, the current situation seems to favor Brighton. For HSV, that means all they can do for now is hope that a door still opens in the race for the Austrian World Championship player.

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