Kevin Kuranyi backs VfB Stuttgart's Finn Jeltsch As European star
On a crisp morning at the VfB Stuttgart training ground, 20‑year‑old defender Finn Jeltsch jogs through drills while cameras capture his every move. The buzz around the Swabian club is palpable, with fans and pundits alike naming him the talk of the town. Sport headlines have been dominated by his rapid rise.
Kuranyi’s endorsement and contract outlook
Former VfB striker Kevin Kuranyi told Sky in an interview that Jeltsch is "a very talented player, who has established himself at VfB, shown incredible performances and brings a lot of speed". He added that the youngster "is not yet at the Limit" and could become a regular for the senior national side.
Jeltsch signed a contract that runs until 2030, and reports say there is no release clause attached. This means Stuttgart could command a hefty fee if a top‑club in Europa decides to act, provided his development continues upward.
National team call‑up and transfer rumours
National team manager Jürgen Klopp included Jeltsch in the DFB squad for Nations‑League fixtures against Serbia on 1 October and Greece on 4 October, though he remains in the second‑team group for the upcoming match with the Netherlands. Klopp praised the defender’s statistics and athleticism, calling him an "exceptional defender".
Rumours have linked Jeltsch with interest from Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Arsenal, but says no concrete enquiries have reached VfB Stuttgart. Nevertheless, the prospect of a move to a top‑club in Europe fuels speculation.
Stuttgart acquired Jeltsch from 1. FC Nürnberg at the start of 2025 for 9.5 million Euro. Should he debut for the DFB team, a further low six‑figure sum is expected to be paid to the club.
In his youth career, Jeltsch helped Germany win the U‑17 World and European championships and claimed the prestigious Fritz‑Walter Medal in gold in 2025, edging out Said El Mala of 1. FC Köln.
Coach Sebastian Hoeneß has trusted Jeltsch from day one, starting him in all six mandatory league games of the new season. To date, the defender has already made 57 appearances for VfB Stuttgart.