Talented teenage defender Luka Vuskovic is set to join Tottenham Hotspur earlier than initially anticipated this summer following Croatia U21’s elimination from European Championship qualifying. The highly-rated 17-year-old center-back, who will turn 18 in February, has already been making waves in European football ahead of his planned move to North London.
Currently on loan at Belgian club Westerlo from his parent club Hajduk Split, Vuskovic has shown impressive form this season, starting every match and contributing four goals and one assist in 14 appearances. He shares the pitch at Westerlo with fellow Spurs player Alfie Devine, who joined the Belgian side on loan in September.
Vuskovic’s recent international duty with Croatia U21s ended in disappointment after a dramatic qualifying playoff against Georgia for the European U21 Championships. Despite converting his penalty in the shootout, Croatia was eliminated after losing 7-6 on penalties following a 3-2 home victory that had leveled the tie after Georgia’s 1-0 win in the first leg.
While the result was undoubtedly disappointing for the young defender, it has created an unexpected advantage for Tottenham. The European U21 Championships in Slovakia are scheduled to run from June 11 to June 28, and had Croatia qualified, Vuskovic would have been required to take a mandatory three-week break following the tournament. This would have delayed his integration into the Spurs squad during the crucial pre-season period.
However, with Croatia’s elimination, Vuskovic will now be available to join Tottenham’s pre-season training from day one when the players return to Hotspur Way in early July. This earlier availability could prove beneficial for both the player and the club, allowing him more time to adapt to his new teammates and manager Ange Postecoglou’s system.
Prior to his current spell at Westerlo, Vuskovic spent time on loan at Polish side Radomiak as part of his development. His rapid progress and consistent performances have marked him as one of European football’s most promising young defenders, which prompted Tottenham to secure his signature amid interest from other top clubs.
The teenager’s ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch, as demonstrated by his goal-scoring record this season, along with his composure and physical presence, have made him stand out despite his young age. His early availability for pre-season training will give him the best possible opportunity to adapt to English football and potentially challenge for a place in Postecoglou’s first-team plans.
The timing of his arrival could be particularly significant for Tottenham, who have been looking to strengthen their defensive options and build for the future. Vuskovic’s early integration into the squad could accelerate his development and help him adjust to the demands of Premier League football more quickly.
This development represents a silver lining following the disappointment of Croatia’s elimination from U21 European Championship contention. While Vuskovic would have undoubtedly valued the experience of participating in the tournament, the opportunity to begin his Tottenham career from the first day of pre-season could prove more beneficial for his long-term development at the club.
The news will likely be welcomed by Tottenham’s coaching staff, who will now have additional time to work with their young prospect and help him adapt to their playing style and tactical requirements before the 2024/25 season begins.
