Liverpool could make a late entry in the race to sign highly-rated Tottenham defender.
Roberto De Zerbi turned Tottenham Hotspur’s fortunes around on the pitch after arriving in March, and now he is working his magic off the pitch in the summer transfer window. He has overseen four summer signings, three of them free transfers, with Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi, Jan Paul van Hecke and Martin Dubravka all arriving in the white half of North London.
The focus has been on rebuilding the defensive spine of the squad after last season’s problems, but the addition of two experienced central defenders have put the futures of some young talents in doubt. Luka Vuskovic is one of those.
Tottenham’s second-most valuable player, Luka Vuskovic, has been the subject of three bids from Brighton and Hove Albion, all of which were rejected by Tottenham. The latest offer was worth £45million package, including add-ons, but it was still not enough to satisfy the North London club’s demands. The N17 bosses continue to value the teenage prodigy significantly higher and insist that any agreement must ultimately exceed the £50million mark.
Liverpool could enter the race for Luka Vuskovic
Vuskovic is eager to leave Spurs for regular game time, and he has already agreed personal terms with Brighton. The lanky central defender is currently representing Croatia at the World Cup, and he started his nation’s opener against England.
While talks between Brighton and Tottenham continue, an exclusive report from CaughtOffside suggests Liverpool could enter the race for Vuskovic. The Merseysiders are closely monitoring the player’s situation as they look to improve their defensive options ahead of the new season.
New boss Andoni Iraola is understood to have concerns about his team’s defence. With Ibrahima Konate released and Virgil van Dijk turning 35 next month, Iraola has to plan for the future. Liverpool confirmed the signing of Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes on the winter transfer window deadline day, and the youngster will officially arrive at the club in July. The Reds’ boss wants to add another young central defender to his ranks, and Vuskovic appears to be that option.
Vuskovic will provide a long-term defensive solution to Liverpool that they are craving for. The Croat already has experience of playing at a high level and possesses the potential to develop into one of the best in his position. Signing the Split-born talent would help the Reds to fill the gap created by Konate and prepare for life after the great Van Dijk. Due to his maturity and leadership qualities, he could also succeed Van Dijk as the club’s skipper.
For now, though, Iraola’s club are keeping tabs on Vuskovic’s situation. Knowing how the clubs have operated in last few years, it won’t be a surprise if they launch an attempt to hijack Brighton’s move for our defensive talent.