Barcelona assess Finn Jeltsch as Stuttgart defender draws interest from Europe’s elite

Barcelona are monitoring Stuttgart defender Finn Jeltsch as they consider strengthening the centre-back position, which remains a concern for Hans-Dieter Flick’s side.

The 20-year-old Germany international is one of the most highly regarded young defenders in German football and fits one of Barcelona’s preferred recruitment profiles: either a player with significant potential or an attractive opportunity in the transfer market.

Jeltsch has impressed for Stuttgart, who are competing in the Champions League this season. His performances have also attracted attention from several leading European clubs, including Real Madrid and Liverpool, according to Sport.

The defender made 37 appearances for Stuttgart last season, helping him earn a place in Germany’s World Cup squad, although he did not play in the tournament.

“Therefore, the 20-year-old would be an ideal option to strengthen the cursed position: Barcelona’s centre-back role, which remains the weakest link in the Catalan side,” Sport reported.

Flick gives approval to potential move

Interest in Jeltsch has increased during the opening part of the current campaign. Stuttgart’s approach, which includes aggressive pressing and a high defensive line, has similarities with the style used by Barcelona.

That system helped Stuttgart qualify for the Champions League last season, while they have taken seven points from a possible nine in the league phase of this season’s competition.

Jeltsch has continued to develop quickly and has established himself as the leader of Stuttgart’s defence. He is comfortable using both feet, can distribute the ball effectively and is adept at moving across the defensive line.

Sport also cited a report from Bild which highlighted two qualities considered particularly suited to Flick’s defensive plans: Jeltsch’s ability to defend in open spaces and his understanding of how to maintain an effective offside line.

Flick knows the Bundesliga well and, after assessing the player, has given his approval in principle to attempts to sign Jeltsch during the summer transfer window.

However, there has also been speculation that Barcelona could make an offer in the current winter window, although that appears unlikely. Stuttgart are expected to demand more than 60m euros, according to Sports Illustrated, a fee that would make a near-term move to Spotify Camp Nou difficult.

Although Barcelona and president Joan Laporta have returned to the financial 1:1 rule, the club do not have sufficient cash to complete a deal of that size in January.

Real Madrid are also considering Jeltsch as they seek to improve a defence that has become an area of concern after two seasons without a trophy. Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao are no longer viewed as wholly dependable options.

Atletico Madrid and Arsenal are also reported to be interested, although both clubs appear to have more settled defensive units.

Liverpool, managed by Andoni Iraola, are the latest club to enter the race. Their interest may have particular significance for Barcelona because Jeltsch plays in the same position as Ronald Araujo, who is on loan from the Catalan club at Liverpool.

Araujo’s future, including the possible activation of his 55m-euro release clause, could therefore be linked to Stuttgart’s stance on Jeltsch.