Arsenal are preparing a concrete approach to sign VfB Stuttgart central defender Finn Jeltsch, who is also being monitored by Manchester United, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Juventus, according to a report by Bulinews.
This claim is currently supported by multiple independent sources, though no formal bids have been submitted to the Bundesliga side.
Stuttgart are reportedly demanding a fee of around €50 million to open negotiations for the 19-year-old. According to the TransferNews database, Jeltsch is under a long-term contract that runs until 30 June 2030, having signed an extension on 3 February 2025. The defender made his Bundesliga debut shortly after that contract signing, starting against Wolfsburg on 15 February 2025.
Elite Clubs Circle Stuttgart's Defensive Prodigy
Stuttgart’s €50 million asking price represents a significant premium on the player's current market valuation, which sits below €35 million. However, his profile as a composed, ball-playing defender who excels under high pressure has attracted serious scouting attention across Europe. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Liverpool's Andoni Iraola are both reportedly seeking physical, flexible, long-term rotation options for their backlines. Meanwhile, Manchester United under caretaker manager Michael Carrick and Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich are prioritising highly rated youth profiles to rebuild their respective central defensive units.
Stuttgart sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth has previously underlined Jeltsch's importance, stating to the club's media channel that the teenager is "one of the best young players in his position in Germany" following his multi-year contract renewal.
Jeltsch Content with Champions League Football
Despite the growing list of suitors, the player has indicated he is in no rush to force a move away from the MHPArena. Speaking to Bulinews about the transfer speculation, Jeltsch said: "I’ve read that too. But it’s not something I’m really thinking about. My full focus is on the upcoming season with VfB. I have an ideal environment here and can play Champions League football."
Stuttgart's strong contractual hold means any suitor will need to meet the €50 million threshold to trigger formal negotiations before the European transfer window closes.
