Luka Vuskovic's own words make Tottenham future stance clear as Brighton circle - 'I'm torn'

Luka Vuskovic's future at Tottenham Hotspur has been called into question following a bid from Brighton.

The defender has been simply sensational out on loan at Hamburg this term - becoming an instant fan favourite at the Volksparkstadion.

At just 19, the towering centre-back has shown serious maturity, with his role in Hamburg's successful survival quest further enhancing his reputation as one of Europe's finest young defenders.

Initially expected to be a part of the first-team picture at Tottenham next term, Vuskovic has been linked with a move to Conference League side Brighton.

David Ornstein reported on Friday that the Seagulls have made a £30million offer to sign the defender, with Vuskovic himself open to a switch.

And based on his previous comments during his time at Hamburg, it would not be a surprise to see him make another switch as he favours his development.

Luka Vuskovic has already prioritised his development with career decisions

Vuskovic's brother, Mario, also plays for Hamburg, though he is currently serving a ban until later this year for a doping incident.

The family connection was a major reason why the young Spurs defender prioritised the move to the Hanseatic City.

Speaking on his Tottenham future, Vuskovic admitted that it has been difficult to make the decisions as to just where his plans lie.

"I'm torn," the 19-year-old told BILD in May. "On the one hand, I'm happy because a lot of what was agreed with Tottenham has worked out in Hamburg. But I am also sad because I would very much like to stay here.

"It's well known that it is my wish to play for Hamburg alongside my brother Mario, but in football, you can't have everything you want. From this summer onwards, I will be a Tottenham player again."

Based on his comments, it is clear to see that Vuskovic is not the sort of character to instantly chase the limelight or to force a move to one of Europe's elite this summer.

As of now, he seems concerned not just about his development but about his connection with the club, too - something Tottenham will need to prove is possible if they wish to keep hold of him.

One thing that does work in their favour, though, is the remarkably low fee of just £30m - enough to potentially buy half of him based on his form for the Red Shorts.

Brighton bid provides rude awakening for Tottenham

No matter how it is dressed up, it must be acknowledged that Tottenham's reputation as a football club has taken a huge hit across the last year.

For years, ammo has been handed to rivals with Spurs being the 'nearly men' of England - a tag that should have dissipated following the Europa League win

Instead, the Lilywhites would survive by the skin of their teeth, while now clubs such as Brighton are in a position where they believe they can low ball Spurs for someone seen a key part of Roberto De Zerbi's plans.

There is an ongoing rebuild at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and their stature does see them able to attract players.

But they are no longer the guaranteed 'top six' side that they were in yesteryear, and will be vulnerable to player pursuits until they have corrected that - particularly when Brighton's recent Premier League record is concerned.