The North London club’s swift dismissal of the bid signals their intent to retain the 19-year-old Croatian international at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, despite the player having expressed a clear desire to move to the South Coast amid uncertainty over playing time under Roberto De Zerbi.
Brighton have identified Vuskovic as a top target ahead of their return to continental football in the 2026/27 campaign. The youngster has already reached a verbal agreement with the Seagulls following positive talks with the club’s hierarchy.
Motivated by the prospect of regular top-flight minutes, Vuskovic has reportedly turned down interest from other European clubs to prioritise a move to the Amex Stadium.
Vuskovic is yet to make a competitive senior appearance for Spurs since his high-profile 2023 arrival from Hajduk Split, but the club view him as a generational defensive prospect.
He enjoyed a superb loan spell at Hamburg in the Bundesliga last season, making 30 appearances and earning a place in Croatia’s 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, which has significantly increased his value.
Spurs remain committed to his long-term development and are understood to be holding out for a valuation that reflects his status as one of Europe’s top emerging talents, should they choose to part ways.
The Vuskovic saga is further complicated by ongoing discussions between the two clubs. Tottenham are pursuing Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke to address immediate defensive needs, and the Seagulls are using the Vuskovic negotiations as a strategic lever.
While Brighton are expected to return with an improved offer, Tottenham’s refusal to negotiate at the €35 million mark sets a clear, elevated baseline for any future talks.
Brighton remain the most serious contender for the defender’s signature. However, with several European heavyweights also monitoring the ‘exceptional’ teenager’s situation, Tottenham are under no pressure to sanction a quick sale.