Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City are interested in acquiring the services of VfB Stuttgart midfield sensation Mirza Catovic.
Mirza Catovic’s sensational rise at VfB Stuttgart hasn’t gone unnoticed, and according to a report from Sky Sport, Manchester City are closely monitoring the Serbian midfielder ahead of a potential move.
Former Stuttgart academy manager Thomas Krücken spotted Catovic and added him to their youth setup back in 2022. He has since gone from strength to strength and is currently an integral part of their reserve team.
While he is a regular part of their first team squad, the teenager has yet to make his professional debut. Despite that, a number of top European clubs are keeping a close eye on the young defensive midfielder.
His contract at Stuttgart runs until the summer of 2028, but he is unlikely to be around for long, given the amount of interest in his services. Manchester City are one of the clubs that seem very keen on his signature.
Manchester City continue to scout Catovic
Krücken, who is currently City’s academy manager, wanted to lure him to the Manchester-based club at the start of 2025. However, Catovic turned down the opportunity and ended up extending his stay at the German club.
The Serbian sensation currently has no desire to leave Stuttgart. He wants to establish himself as a key figure in their first team before taking the next step in his career. Both parties are believed to be very happy with the progress he has made.
While City continue to monitor him, they might have to play the waiting game in their pursuit of the teenage sensation. With Catovic keen on establishing himself in the Stuttgart first-team, his future depends on the number of opportunities he gets in the coming months.
A lack of game time could force him to consider a move away. However, City might have to offer him a clear road map to the first team to lure him to the club. Krücken’s presence will certainly help their cause, but it alone won’t be good enough.