Luka Vušković backed for Brighton move as Tottenham reject bids

Luka Vušković has been backed to complete a move to Brighton & Hove Albion this summer after his former coach described the Seagulls as the ideal next step in the defender's development.

Brighton's interest in the Tottenham Hotspur youngster has intensified following the club's agreement to sell Jan Paul van Hecke to Spurs. With the Dutch international heading to north London, Brighton are now searching for a replacement and have identified Vušković as a leading target.

The Seagulls have already made multiple attempts to sign the Croatian defender, but Tottenham have rejected each approach. Reports indicate Brighton's latest offer was worth around £35m, still short of Spurs' valuation.

Hajduk Split youth coach Luka Vučko, who worked with Vušković during his early years in Croatia, believes the Premier League club would provide the perfect environment for the 19-year-old to continue his development.

Speaking to Sportske Novosti, Vučko said:

"Absolutely. But he and his people will decide what's best.

"It has already been forgotten that he went gradually, step by step. First Radomiak and the Polish league, then Belgium and Westerlo, and now HSV. Brighton would be a top club for him at this point. Vušković will only play his best football in three or four seasons."

The comments come after another impressive campaign for the centre-back, who enhanced his reputation during a successful loan spell with Hamburg SV.

Having followed the defender's rise, Brighton's recruitment team appear convinced he is ready for the next stage of his career. However, Tottenham's stance suggests they remain reluctant to lose one of the most highly-rated young defenders at the club.

Recent reports have also linked Barcelona with Vušković, but the Spanish champions have so far stopped short of making a formal move. Tottenham's reported €60m valuation is believed to have discouraged the Catalan club from advancing their interest.

That figure highlights the faith Spurs have in the Croatian international. Vušković remains under contract until 2030, giving Tottenham significant leverage in any negotiations.

The defender's situation is also complicated by uncertainty over first-team opportunities next season. Roberto De Zerbi is expected to have several centre-back options available, particularly following the arrivals of Marcos Senesi and Van Hecke.

As a result, Brighton could potentially offer a clearer pathway to regular Premier League football.

Brighton must decide whether to return with an improved offer or pursue alternative defensive targets before the transfer window progresses further.

Tottenham remain in a strong position because of Vušković's long-term contract, but continued interest from Brighton and Barcelona could ensure the defender's future remains one of the summer's most closely watched stories.

Do you think Tottenham should keep Luka Vušković and integrate him into the first team, or would a move to Brighton be the best step for his development?