Brighton Sign Croatia Defender Luka Vuskovic for £46m

Deal Details

Brighton have secured Croatia centre‑back Luka Vuskovic on a five‑year contract with an option for a further year. The Seagulls paid a club record £46 million, a fee that could increase to £50 million with additional add‑ ons. Two earlier bids were turned away by Tottenham, the player’s previous club. The transfer also swaps places with Jan Paul van Hecke, who moved to Spurs for £52 million.

Player Background

Vuskovic, born in Split, progressed through Hajduk’s academy and became the youngest player to feature in Croatia’s top division at 16. He later earned the accolade of being Hajduk’s youngest goalscorer. Tottenham signed him in the summer of 2025, immediately loaning him to Hamburg where he made 30 Bundesliga appearances and scored six times last season. His performances earned him Rookie of the Season and a spot on the Bundesliga Team of the Year. He has six senior caps for Croatia, including a World Cup appearance against England.

Impact on Brighton’s Squad

Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler said the club has tracked Vuskovic’s development closely, citing his high‑level play last season. “We want to help him build on that within our environment,” Hurzeler remarked, while noting the player’s youth and need for adjustment to the Premier League. The coach added that despite external speculation, the club is confident Vuskovic will adapt smoothly. He will replace the Netherlands international Jan Paul van Hecke, who joined Tottenham in the opposite direction.

Future Outlook

The 19‑year‑old arrives with the expectation of becoming a regular in Brighton’s defence, offering competition for places and long‑term potential. His £46 million valuation signals the club’s ambition to challenge for European qualification. Vuskovic is slated to make his debut against Aston Villa on Sunday, 23 August at 14:00 BST. As he settles into life on the south coast, his ability to combine physical robustness with aerial skill could prove decisive in the coming campaign.