Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has approved a move for Stuttgart’s Finn Jeltsch, setting up a transfer battle with arch-rivals Real Madrid for one of Germany’s most promising young centre-backs.
According to Sport, Flick wants Barca to pursue the 20-year-old, who has attracted interest from several European heavyweights after his impressive development in the Bundesliga.
Real Madrid are also monitoring Jeltsch, while Liverpool are reportedly prepared to offer around €50 million to secure his signature.
Barcelona could face major competition if they decide to formalise their interest in the German international.
Flick has identified Jeltsch as a potential target ahead of next summer, as the Barcelona boss continues to use his knowledge of German football to spot promising additions.
The former Bayern Munich manager is willing to recruit players he knows, and he reportedly played a key role in Barcelona’s decision to sign Karim Adeyemi this summer.
Jeltsch’s performances have caught the eye. He has won 52 percent of his aerial and 64% of his ground duels this term in six Bundesliga appearances.
He has gradually grown in stature and importance for his club since joining in January.
Jeltsch joined Stuttgart from Nuremberg and has continued to develop into one of the Bundesliga’s most exciting young defensive prospects.
His composure, maturity and ability to remain calm under pressure have reportedly impressed Flick.
Barcelona wanted to add another centre-half to their ranks this summer but missed out on their first-choice target, Alessandro Bastoni.
The Catalan giants also sent Ronald Araujo on loan to Liverpool, leaving a huge gap in central defence that they urgently need to cover.
Barcelona and Real Madrid went head-to-head for Rodri’s signature last summer, and the La Liga champions won the race.
The pair face off next week in El Clasico and could lock horns again next summer for Jeltsch.