Levy has hit gold on “freak” whose value has risen £7m without kicking a ball for Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur fans have struggled to find positives this season, with their team’s performances in the Premier League falling well below expectations.

Ange Postecoglou’s side has already exited both the FA Cup and League Cup, leaving the Europa League as their last opportunity to salvage European qualification.

Despite the team’s struggles, the emergence of young talents offers a reason for optimism. While several senior players have underperformed, the club’s youth prospects have shown remarkable promise, providing hope for the future.

Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall have impressed since arriving, while Mikey Moore continues to showcase his immense potential. Meanwhile, Lucas Williams-Barnet has been a standout performer in the academy. Another rising star, signed by Daniel Levy and his recruitment team, has made significant strides while on loan, boosting his market value along the way.

Before highlighting that particular player, it’s worth noting a few other young Spurs talents enjoying productive loan spells. Jamie Donley, described as the “perfect” prospect by journalist Alasdair Gold, has spent the season with Leyton Orient in League One.

Although he experienced a slow start, he has since become a key contributor. Over 36 appearances, he has logged 2,462 minutes, scoring six goals and providing six assists. This equates to a goal involvement every 205.16 minutes, an impressive return for an attacking midfielder.

Jamie Donley’s 24/25 Season

In the Championship, 19-year-old Ashley Phillips has become a crucial part of Stoke City’s defense. Featuring in 72% of their league matches, he has made 27 appearances across all competitions and even contributed a goal. Gaining significant experience at a high level, Phillips’ development suggests he could have a future role at Tottenham.

One young defender, however, has seen his valuation skyrocket before even playing for Spurs. Luka Vušković, signed for £12 million in September 2023, cannot officially join the club until the summer due to post-Brexit regulations on foreign players under 18.

Despite this, his stock has risen significantly, with the CIES Football Observatory now valuing him at up to €23 million (£19 million), marking a £7 million increase.

The reason for this rapid rise lies in his outstanding performances on loan at Belgian side KVC Westerlo. The Croatian center-back, dubbed a “freak” talent by analyst Ben Mattinson, has showcased his ability on both ends of the pitch.

Despite playing as a defender, he has scored seven goals and provided one assist in 25 appearances, averaging a goal involvement every 3.12 matches—an astonishing stat that even surpasses Tottenham forward Richarlison’s tally this season.

Luka Vušković’s 24/25 Season

At just 18 years old, Vušković already possesses the physical attributes needed for the Premier League, standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall. His ability to command the defense while contributing offensively makes him an exciting prospect for Tottenham’s future.

Though this season has been difficult, the club’s young talents provide a strong foundation for the future. If Vušković continues his trajectory and delivers on his potential, Tottenham may have a world-class defender in their ranks. The blend of promising academy graduates and shrewd recruitment signals a bright future for Spurs, even amid current struggles.