Brighton have made a major statement by signing Luka Vuskovic following Jan Paul van Hecke’s £52million move to Tottenham. Transfermarkt now ranks the Croatian behind only Barcelona’s Pau Cubarsi among the world’s most valuable under-21 centre-backs.
Transfermarkt values Vuskovic at €60million, placing him second to €100million-rated Cubarsi. His value increased by €48million during an impressive loan spell with Hamburg last season.
Brighton paid Tottenham an initial £46million, with a further £4million available through add-ons. The agreement also contains a 20 per cent sell-on clause and matching rights for Spurs.
The 19-year-old has signed a five-year contract and becomes Albion’s record signing. It is a significant investment, but one which reflects his performances in Germany and his long-term potential.
Luka Vuskovic gives Brighton major Van Hecke replacement
Van Hecke’s departure left Fabian Hürzeler needing a defender capable of handling a high defensive line. Vuskovic brings height, aggression and confidence in possession, while his six Bundesliga goals last season also underline his threat from set-pieces.
Brighton’s defensive rebuild after Van Hecke’s exit has also included Pascal Struijk and Olivier Boscagli. However, Vuskovic carries the highest ceiling of the new arrivals.
The Croatian is not guaranteed to replace Van Hecke immediately. Hürzeler has already warned that he will need time to adjust to Brighton and the demands of Premier League football.
Even so, Albion have converted the sale of an established defender into the arrival of one of Europe’s leading young centre-backs. Vuskovic’s valuation and reputation make the deal a clear statement before Brighton return to European competition.
