Luka Vuskovic set for World Cup chance with Tottenham future uncertain after confirmed double deal | OneFootball

Spurs are in a tricky situation with the talented central defender

Tottenham centre-back Luka Vuskovic has not yet had the opportunity to leave his mark on this World Cup, and already his future is one of the major talking points of a busy summer transfer window for Spurs.

The 19-year-old, fresh off the back of an impressive loan at Bundesliga side Hamburg, is attracting interest from clubs in England and abroad.

Spurs, though, want to keep hold of Vuskovic and reportedly rejected a £35million offer from Brighton for the young defender.

Vuskovic’s stock is high, and a good World Cup, with a Croatia side widely expected to qualify from Group L alongside England, will only increase his market value.

Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic says it is important for Vuskovic to find a club where he will play regularly.

But Spurs are said to be looking at another loan move for Vuskovic and are closing in on a deal for Brighton centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke, having already confirmed the signing of Marcos Senesi on a free transfer.

Opportunities at Spurs next season appear limited for Vuskovic, and with a wealth of options, he could look to move elsewhere in search of regular first-team football.

Vuskovic is highly rated by Spurs, but with Roberto De Zerbi leaning towards Premier League experience and players over the age of 25, Vuskovic has been caught at a crossroads.

Signed from Croatian top-flight side Hadjuk Split in 2023 as part of a youth-led recruitment policy, Vuskovic is yet to make a competitive appearance for Spurs.

With De Zerbi at the helm, the club’s recruitment focus has seemingly shifted away from banking on young potential, and while nobody at Spurs is under any illusions about Vuskovic’s ability, there are question marks about how quickly he could adapt to the Premier League.

Luka Vuskovic enjoyed an impressive loan at Hamburg this season

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After two successive 17th-place finishes, De Zerbi wants to add experience and leadership to his squad. Vuskovic, while capable and confident beyond his years, would still need time and patience, which De Zerbi may not be able to afford him.

The ball is in Vuskovic’s court, and he knows a productive World Cup will only increase his options. Spurs, though, are playing a risky game by not offering the teenager guarantees over playing time.

All eyes will be on Vuskovic when Croatia get their World Cup campaign underway later tonight. His future is likely to remain a topic of conversation all summer, with Spurs left in a tricky situation.