Premier League scouts hunt Sturm Graz talent Luca Weinhandl

The 17‑year‑old Luca Weinhandl, who has been in the first team of Sturm Graz since the start of the year, is already on the radar of a Premier League duo – Arsenal, Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion from England have, according to journalist Mark Brus, expressed their interest. The two English clubs are said to have personally assessed him during the upcoming matches against Rapid Vienna and LASK.

European spot and international observations

In January, Weinhandl made his first appearance in the Europa League when Sturm Graz played against Feyenoord Rotterdam and Brann Bergen. This made him the youngest Austrian ever to feature in this competition. The scouts of the three English clubs also watched him in the domestic matches against Rapid Vienna and LASK. As journalist Mark Brus reports, the interest of both clubs is great.

In this year's Champions League qualification, he displayed a goal and an assist against Heart of Midlothian. These actions underscored his quality on the European stage. They also solidified his reputation among international observers.

This evening, Sturm Graz will face the French side Stade Rennes in the Europa League for the first time. The match takes place in Graz and provides the 17‑year‑old talent with further visibility. The encounter is another test before a possible transfer.

Weinhandl was a regular starter at the U‑17 World Cup in November 2025, where Austria surprisingly became runners‑up. In March of this year, he played for the U‑19 team in the European Championship qualifying match against Germany. These appearances have also made him known in the national jersey.

Development coach and Graz club legend Günther Neukirchner described him in November 2025 as the “biggest talent we have.” He cites Jude Bellingham and Ryan Gravenberch as role models. The statement highlights the high regard he already receives at such a young age.

Transfer market and price expectations

Weinhandl's contract length is currently unknown, but Sturm Graz intends to sell him sooner or later and achieve a high profit. The club's record departure was Napoli striker Rasmus Höjlund for €21 million. According to information from Sky Sport Austria, he was also the focus of German and Italian clubs in the summer. According to Mark Brus, €20 million would be sufficient for the young midfielder.