Finn Jeltsch is now a three-club transfer story, with Barcelona planning a January move for the Stuttgart defender and Liverpool lining up to make a move if they fail.
The 20-year-old has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the Bundesliga over the past 12 months and his continued excellence in the Champions League this season has attracted a number of elite European clubs. Barcelona are actively pursuing the market for young players with elite potential under sporting director Deco, and Jeltsch has emerged as a prime target.
Sportinfo.az reports that manager Hansi Flik personally gave the green light to watch him. The German coach knows the Bundesliga inside out and reportedly appreciates the defender’s ability to work in a high defensive line as well as his speed of recovery in open spaces.
Finn Jeltsch transfer: Will Barcelona test Stuttgart in January?
A summer move was initially expected, but sources believe Barcelona could try to test Stuttgart’s resolve when the January window opens. Any midseason deal is going to be pretty complicated. The German club are expected to demand around €60m (£50.3m) for their prized asset.
Liverpool and Real Madrid are waiting in the wings
If Barcelona can’t cash in, both the Reds and Real Madrid are ready to pounce. Madrid are desperate for defensive reinforcements after admitting Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao are not viable long-term options.
Meanwhile, Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola is believed to see Jeltsch as a vital part of his succession planning at Anfield. The Merseyside club are reportedly ready to meet Stuttgart’s price as they look for a long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk.
Is Liverpool’s priority at centre-back?
It’s a position the club keeps coming back to. Liverpool have already been linked with Brighton’s 19-year-old defender Luka Vuskovic, who is in the same price bracket, and they are also drawing up their midfield shortlist for January. Our look at Liverpool’s right-back problem shows just how thin the squad is.
Author’s opinion
While £50.3m is a hefty fee for a 20-year-old, it’s a going rate for young defenders with Champions League minutes. Barcelona have a head start with Flick’s support, but money seems to be their stumbling block. If they hold out, Liverpool, who are reportedly willing to match the valuation, could take advantage.