Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has reportedly earmarked Finn Jeltsch as his main centre-back target for next year. The 20-year-old VfB Stuttgart defender is also attracting interest from Liverpool and Real Madrid, according to Spanish outlet SPORT.
Liverpool and Real Madrid Join the Race
The Reds are said to be prepared to table a €50 million (£43 million) bid, while Flick is pushing Barcelona to move first and fend off the competition. Stuttgart’s asking price has not been revealed, though Jeltsch’s market value is put at €40 million and his contract runs until 2029, giving the Bundesliga side considerable leverage.
Who Is Finn Jeltsch?
Jeltsch arrived from FC Nuremberg in February 2025 and has quickly become one of the Bundesliga’s most promising young defenders. He has racked up more than 50 senior appearances for Stuttgart, registering two assists, and has played 719 minutes across nine games this season.
Why Barcelona Want Him
Flick is looking for a specialist partner for Pau Cubarsi, as Barcelona have not truly replaced Inigo Martinez since his departure last year. Gerard Martin has performed well alongside Cubarsi, but a natural centre-back would suit the system better. Jeltsch’s physical presence and passing range make him a credible fit.
Liverpool and Madrid’s Motives
Liverpool see Jeltsch as a long-term successor to ageing captain Virgil van Dijk, potentially pairing him with Jeremy Jacquet. Real Madrid, meanwhile, must plan for life after Antonio Rudiger, whose deal expires within nine months, while Eder Militao’s injury record raises durability concerns.
Our Take
With three heavyweight clubs circling, a bidding war looks likely, and Stuttgart will not sell cheaply. Barcelona’s financial constraints could prove their biggest obstacle, so Liverpool arguably hold the advantage if they move decisively.