Croatian media react to Luka Vuskovic's World Cup debut as Tottenham exit edges closer
Luka Vuskovic has been an increasingly enormous talking point since returning to Tottenham Hotspur from his season-long loan.
The 19-year-old experienced a tremendous campaign at Hamburg, where he became a fan-favourite, while netting six goals in 30 appearances.
Understandably, the Bundesliga side, who were able to avoid relegation, want to sign the youngster permantntly, but everyone in North London wants to see him given a chance.
Back at Hotspur Way, though, it appears increasingly likely that the Lilywhites are gearing up to cash in on the defender, who has yet to make a senior appearance for the club.
There is every chance for Spurs to make profit on his signature, having already rejected bids from Brighton, and it seems that conclusion is on the cards.
Roberto De Zerbi has already added Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi to the squad, but the manager may want to keep a close eye on the 2026 World Cup before making any further decisions.
Tottenham to keep eyes on Luka Vuskovic at 2026 World Cup
With Vuskovic's Croatia coming up against England in their World Cup opener on Wednesday, 17 June, he was always going to be a big talking point.
Facing former Spurs striker Harry Kane added yet another element to the situation, with the Three Lions eventually claiming a 4-2 win at the Dallas Stadium.
Ranking Vuskovic's performance as a 6/10, Germanijak wrote: "He was closest to Kane at the goal, but it is not his fault that the most dangerous centre-forward in the world so easily dropped to 11 meters and scored with his head.
"He had a potentially good opportunity, but he got tangled up in front of the England penalty area. For the first appearance at the World Cup in the context of years and more than correct."
CroatianSports were a bit harsher, giving a 5.5/10 rating, and writing: "Tough first big game at this level. Some good moments, but a few mistakes too. Also becomes Croatia’s youngest-ever World Cup player."
It was a rather mixed display against England, but given that he's being trusted on the biggest stage in football, De Zerbi may have to reconsider his stance.
What's the latest on Vuskovic's future?
Spurs have now rejected multiple bids from the Seagulls this summer, with the club holding out for north of £60million if they are to cash in.
A decision to sell could land the Lilywhites in a lot of hot water with the supporters, given that the majority of them are looking forward to seeing what he can do on the pitch.
With Brighton only offering between £30m and £35m, Vuskovic is not yet close to secure an exit, but the summer window has only just opened.
De Zerbi's decisions behind the scenes would suggest that Spurs are open to letting him go, but only for the right price, and it remains to be seen how his World Cup debut could impact his transfer fee.