Barcelona join Real Madrid in tracking Stuttgart defender Finn Jeltsch

Barcelona are monitoring Stuttgart centre-back Finn Jeltsch, with the 20-year-old also attracting growing interest from Real Madrid and other leading European clubs.

According to Sport, citing Sky Sport, a Barcelona scout attended Stuttgart’s Champions League match against Viking to assess Jeltsch at close quarters. Inter Milan also sent a representative to watch the Germany defender and evaluate his progress.

Jeltsch, who is 1.88m tall, has continued to impress for Stuttgart and has strengthened his reputation during the past several months. Persistent speculation over his future has also driven his estimated market value sharply upwards, with the figure now approaching €45m.

Stuttgart have confirmed only that a large number of accredited club scouts were present in the stands. The Bundesliga club have been unwilling to encourage further speculation over one of the central players in their rebuilding project.

Sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth has declined to become involved in transfer-market discussions, limiting his response to a denial that negotiations over Jeltsch are taking place.

The defender’s profile rose significantly only a week ago after his name became linked with Real Madrid. The side managed by Jose Mourinho is also looking for a defender for the future and is among the clubs following Jeltsch’s development closely, with the player seen as a possible successor to Antonio Rudiger.

Interest in Jeltsch has increased further after he received the backing of Jurgen Klopp, who gave the young defender an opportunity to step up to the senior Germany team.

Barcelona continue search for defensive reinforcement

Barcelona’s interest reflects an ongoing effort to strengthen their defensive options. The Catalan club have been assessing the transfer market since last season for a player capable of adding to the defenders available to manager Flek.

Their search has continued after Twente refused to negotiate the transfer of Ruud Nijstad for a fee considered reasonable. Barcelona are therefore still looking for a young defender with the qualities required to fit into Flek’s system.

Jeltsch has emerged as one of the names being considered, although Stuttgart have so far rejected any suggestion that formal talks are under way. His performances, rising valuation and growing list of admirers have placed him firmly among the young defenders attracting attention across Europe.