The name Luka Vuskovic has been buzzing around Säbener Strasse for weeks. The 18-year-old Hamburg SV centre-back is regarded as one of Europe’s biggest defensive talents and has also made an impression on FC Bayern with his performances in the Bundesliga. Nevertheless, there are increasing signs that a move to Munich will not materialize for the time being
At the latest after his strong performance in the 2:2 draw against FC Bayern, it is clear what potential the Croatian has. Vuskovic has not only established himself as a regular player at HSV, but also acts with remarkable calm and maturity as a defensive leader. This is extraordinary for a player of his age – and the interest from top European soccer is correspondingly high
Bayern see quality, but no room for maneuver
Vuskovic is also being watched closely at FC Bayern. Internally, his profile, physicality and intelligence are valued. Nevertheless, the starting position is complicated. With Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah, Munich currently have a high-quality and long-term position in the center of defence. Both are in their prime at centre-back, while Vuskovic would have to be considered in perspective
However, this is precisely where one of the problems lies. As the portal The Athletic reports, Bayern have set other priorities for the upcoming summer transfer window. Those responsible see a greater need in the offensive, especially in the wing positions. Names such as Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig are significantly higher on the internal list than an additional central defender
There is also the financial component: Munich do not expect Vuskovic to be available for a „reasonable price“. The Croatian’s market value is currently estimated at around 40 million euros, but Tottenham Hotspur are said to have significantly higher expectations. At Säbener Straße, it is considered almost impossible that Spurs would be willing to negotiate below this level in the summer
Tottenham has the upper hand
The contractual situation clearly speaks against a quick deal. Vuskovic is on loan from Tottenham to HSV until the end of the season, but his contract with the Londoners runs until 2030. There is no exit clause, so Tottenham are free to decide on the timing and conditions of a potential sale
Given Spurs‘ difficult sporting situation, a sale is by no means certain. The Premier League club is stuck deep in mid-table and is in danger of missing out on international business. In London, Vuskovic is seen as an important building block for the future, not as a short-term source of income. According to The Athletic, Tottenham would only be willing to talk if an exceptionally high offer was made
The player himself does not feel any time pressure either. Vuskovic has stressed that he does not want to look more closely at his sporting future until after the 2026 World Cup. Another year at HSV, ideally on loan again, is a realistic option for him. In Hamburg, he would continue to play a central role and be able to develop in a familiar environment
However, this scenario could still be interesting for FC Bayern. A further year of observation would allow the Munich club to pursue the development of the defensive gem without financial risk. As things stand, it is clear that a Vuskovic transfer next summer is more of a mind game than a concrete plan for the record champions.