An analysis of the $\alpha$ + core properties of $^{104}$Te along with a global discussion on the $\alpha$-cluster structure above the double-shell closures is presented from the viewpoint of the local potential model. The $\alpha$ + core interaction is described by a nuclear potential of (1 + Gaussian)$\times$(W.S. + W.S.$^3$) shape with two free parameters, which has been successfully tested in nuclei of different mass regions. The model produces $Q_{\alpha}$ values and $\alpha$-decay half-lives for $^{104}$Te in agreement with the 2018 experimental data of Auranen et al. in the energy range $5.13 \; \mathrm{MeV} < Q_{\alpha} < 5.3 \; \mathrm{MeV}$ using an $\alpha$ preformation factor $P_{\alpha} = 1$. The comparison of the calculated reduced $\alpha$-widths for the ground state bands of $^{104}$Te, $^{94}$Mo and $^{212}$Po indicates that $^{104}$Te has an $\alpha$-cluster degree significantly higher than $^{94}$Mo and much higher than $^{212}$Po. These results point to $^{104}$Te as a preferential nucleus for $\alpha$-clustering in the $N,Z = 50$ region and corroborate the statement on the superallowed $\alpha$-decay in $^{104}$Te.
Comment: 11 pages, 3 figures. Accepted for publication in Physics Letters B