Hamburger SV sporting director Claus Costa has confirmed Luka Vuskovic will definitely return to Tottenham at the end of the season.

The young Croatian centre-back has been a shining light in the Bundesliga this term, scoring an impressive four goals in 19 top-flight matches.

Hamburg would like to keep Vuskovic but according to Costa, the German club's hands are tied because there is no buy-option included within the loan agreement.

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Costa said when quizzed on the Croatia international's future: “Contractually, there’s no chance he’ll stay. It’s purely a loan, and we have no way to tie Luka to HSV long-term."

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Hamburg boss Merlin Polzin has already confirmed he wants to retain the services of Vuskovic next season, stating: “I’m a man of conviction. Of course, I also believe in things that seem impossible, even if they’re just a bit romantic about football. Nevertheless, there’s a clear contractual agreement between the clubs.

“We’re very grateful that we found a solution last summer. It was very clear from the start with Luka’s camp that he only wanted to join HSV. The communication with Tottenham is extremely professional, both last summer and now. We’d be very interested in him continuing to wear the HSV jersey.”

The sticking point for HSV is that Vuskovic has been so good, it's highly likely Tottenham would like to keep him next season.

But even if they don't, a raft of clubs from across Europe are expected to enter the fray and there could well be permanent transfer interest in addition to fresh loan offers.

German giants Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are among a series of sides to have been linked with a swoop.

Hamburg are also itching to keep the 19-year-old so he can play alongside his brother Mario, who will be free to return from a doping ban in November.

Costa is under no illusions that it would be the stuff of dreams to pair the two brothers together, adding: “Of course, there’s this romantic notion that Luka will one day play alongside his brother Mario.

“Of course, we’re in contact with him [Mario]. He’s not allowed to train or play football for any club. But he’s in top physical condition, working hard with an absolute dedication and passion that is second to none.”

Vuskovic, who is set to feature for Croatia at the World Cup this summer, has already outlined his desire to play alongside Mario.

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