FC Barcelona, Barca v Villarreal CF - LaLiga EA Sports Hansi Flick coaches FC Barcelona during the La Liga EA Sports 2025 26 match between FC Barcelona and Villarreal CF at Spotify Camp Nou Stadium in Barcelona, Spain, on February 2026. Barcelona Catalonia Spain PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxFRA Copyright: xGongorax originalFilename:bonilla-fcbarcel260228_np3Tl.jpg
Liverpool face a crucial week, with Chelsea in the Carabao Cup before a Premier League clash against Arsenal. The fixtures could prove significant as the Reds continue to adapt to life under Andoni Iraola.
Beyond the immediate challenges, Liverpool must also plan for the future of their defence. With Virgil van Dijk approaching his 36th birthday and entering the final year of his contract, and Joe Gomez struggling with injuries, the Reds could need one or two centre-backs.
Stuttgart defender Finn Jeltsch has emerged as a potential target. The 20-year-old is regarded as one of Germany’s most promising young talents and has attracted interest from Liverpool, Barcelona and Real Madrid.
According to Spanish outlet Sport, Barcelona sporting director Deco is closely monitoring young players with exceptional potential, and Jeltsch fits that profile.
His performances for Stuttgart, who are competing in the Champions League this season, have attracted interest from several European giants.
Stuttgart’s high press and defensive line are similar to Barcelona’s approach. After qualifying for the Champions League last season, they have collected seven points from their first three European matches this term.
Jeltsch is developing rapidly and has already become a defensive leader, with excellent footwork and an ability to distribute the ball laterally.
Stuttgart’s reported €60million asking price makes a move to Barcelona unlikely in the short term. Despite returning to La Liga’s 1:1 financial rule, Joan Laporta and the club lack the funds to complete a deal of that magnitude in the January transfer window.
Jeltsch has made 10 appearances for Stuttgart this season. After graduating from FC Nurnberg’s academy, he made his senior debut in 2023/24, featuring 13 times in Bundesliga 2 at just 17. He became a key player the following season before joining Stuttgart for a reported £8million in February 2025.
The Germany U21 international has continued to develop in the Bundesliga and is now an established first-team regular, competing in the Champions League.
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Xabi Alonso of Chelsea FC team in action during Hong Kong Football Festival, Chelsea FC press conference at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong on August 4, 2026.
Xabi Alonso of Chelsea FC team in action during Hong Kong Football Festival, Chelsea FC press conference at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong on August 4, 2026.